By: DOGeNEWS
By Lamar Deane
You've finally decided you want to get a dog, but how do you go
about choosing a dog breed that will fit your personality and
lifestyle. There are over 400 different dog breeds to choose
from. Don't just consider the outward appearance when picking a
dog breed.
Do you want a male or female?
Do you want a puppy or an adult?
Do you want a lap dog or guard dog?
First, consult with a professional dog handler or a
professional dog trainer to learn about certain dog
personalities of different breeds, and try to match what you
want with what a particular dog has to offer. Also, talk to a
veterinarian about your choice of a purebred or mixed breed dog.
The professional trainers and vets' opinions are invaluable, as
they handle many different dogs every day and have first hand
knowledge of the characteristics, and qualities of different
types of dogs and breeds.
You can choose between a purebred dog or a mixed breed dog. The
advantages of purebred dogs are consistency of appearance, size,
coat type, and color. If you decide on a German Shepherd breed,
you can be certain it will grow to a certain size...It will be
similar to other German Shepherds in appearance...Its color,
temperament, coat, etc will be similar to other German
Shepherds. Purebred dogs generally have more genetic faults and
deformities than do mixed breeds.
Mixed breed puppies may mature to look like their dam, their
sire (if known) or neither. Their coats may be rough, smooth, or
wiry. Adult mixed breeds are difficult to ascertain, as are
their expressions. These variations are multiplied when either
or both parents are from mixed backgrounds. Mixed breeds usually
have a certain amount of heterosis ( increased vigor or other
superior qualities that come from crossbreeding), which, under
some circumstances, result in stronger and more
disease-resistant dogs. A mixed breed puppy is likely to have a
very individual personality, seemingly unrelated to either of
its parents.
The temperament of mixed breeds are often quieter and more
stable than those of purebreds, although this characteristic is
not consistent. Temperament is partially genetic and partly the
result of experience and training. Many purebreds have a notably
quiet temperament, and an occasional mixed breed is
unpredictable.
Before you select a purebred or a mixed breed, decide what you
expect of the dog. If you have a desire to exhibit it in
conformation shows, obedience trials, field trials, herding
tests, or other American Kennel Club sponsored events, you must
start out with a purebred.
If you want a companion, a family pet, or a child's dog and
have no aspirations of winning blue ribbons, a mixed breed
should fill your need nicely. Mixed breed puppies and adult dogs
are plentiful, both from shelters and private homes. They cost
less to buy, and may be easier to handle. Mixed breed dogs can
compete in Frisbee contests, 4-H obedience, and non-AKC agility
trials, and are included in the AKC-sponsored Canine Good
Citizen program.
About the Author: Lamar Deane provides information on why its
important to choose the right dog breed for your lifestyle and
personality. Visit: http://bestdogbreeds.info/dogs.html
Source: http://www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=274102&ca=Pets
