Pet parenting is popular in the US, specifically after the pandemic, when countless people adopted animals to avoid isolation. Dogs take the number one spot, with more than 65.1 million households raising a canine companion. Cats and freshwater fish come next.
The numbers show that dogs far outnumber other pets in the country. As a potential pet parent, you will probably want to stick with the popular opinion. You have good reasons because a furry friend can bring happiness, love, and loyalty to your life.
One thing you may not realize as a beginner is the need to find a companion dog to align with your lifestyle. That’s important for a comfortable relationship and stress-free parenting because the wrong choice may make you feel stuck.
Here are a few tips to find a perfect companion dog breed that effortlessly blends with your lifestyle.
Assess Your Lifestyle
Bringing home a canine companion is a financial commitment and moral responsibility. Did you know that an average dog owner spends $1,480 a year on pet care? Another survey shows that only 20% of US pet owners spend time with their pawed companions.
The numbers emphasize the significance of considering your lifestyle before adopting a dog. Can you spend enough time and money on raising it? Do you have adequate space at home? Are you an active individual who loves the outdoors, or do you prefer to spend time indoors?
Assess your daily routine, work commitments, personal life, and finances to determine the time, money, and energy you can dedicate to your canine friend. With these factors, you can easily find a perfect match.
Consider Breed Characteristics
The next step is to consider the breed characteristics such as the size, energy levels, temperament, and common diseases. Thorough research may take time and effort, but it sets you up for comfortable canine parenting in the long run.
You can opt for a conventional breed or look for a unique one, such as a pocket bully. These affectionate little goofballs are trainable, intelligent, active, adaptable, and kid-friendly. The breed is a pint-sized version of the American bully, making it ideal for people living in compact homes.
According to New Pitbull, this relatively new designer breed is loved for its stocky stature and loyal temperament. With good care and maintenance, pocket bullies can live a healthy life exceeding a decade.
Pay Attention to Allergies
Although all dog breeds are prone to specific health issues over the years, allergies are a top concern for owners. They seem like a small issue, but they can affect your life more than you imagine. You can have a tough time raising a pet if you or a loved one has allergies.
Unfortunately, statistics show that 10-20% of people experience allergies to dogs and cats. You must pay close attention to this lifestyle factor before adopting a pet.
Breeds that shed more can be troublemakers as their dander can aggravate allergies enough to make you or your family member sick. You need to choose a hypoallergenic breed that produces fewer allergens. Bichon Frises, Poodles, and Maltese dogs are the best options because of minimal shedding and dander production.
Training, Travel, and Temperament
These three t’s matter the most when it comes to finding a perfect canine companion to match your lifestyle. The average training time for a puppy is at least 4-6 weeks, though some breeds need more. You may also have to invest in ongoing daily training over the years. Will you be able to handle these needs or have to outsource them?
If you travel often and want to take along your furry companion, pick a breed comfortable with change. For example, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel adapts well to new situations, but the French bulldog may struggle with environmental changes. The mode of travel you use is also a deciding factor because some breeds may not meet airline regulations, and others don’t do well on road trips.
When it comes to temperament, you should factor in your social environment. Look for a dog that enjoys company if you have kids and other pets at home. Separation anxiety is another crucial consideration. You should avoid a pet than panic alone if you travel a lot or leave home for long hours.
Finding a Perfect Match
Pets are like romantic partners because you need a perfect match for a thriving relationship with them. At the same time, you cannot take a hit-and-trial approach to dog parenting, trying to make things work and abandoning your furry friend if they don’t work.
A little research before bringing home a companion dog sets you up for a successful and lasting bond. Follow these tips to find your ideal companion.
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