This article is contributed by guest writer Danniel Walker (Author).
Adopting The Right Dog For Your Lifestyle
Are you considering adding a furry friend to your home? If so, have you considered adoption?
Adopting a dog comes with a number of benefits.
If you’re on a tight budget, adopting a dog from a shelter is probably your best bet. The average cost of adopting a dog from a shelter is just $50. So, if you’re looking to save some money, adoption is definitely the way to go.
When you adopt a dog, you’re not just adding another member to your family — you’re literally saving that dog’s life. Every year, approximately 1.5 million dogs are euthanized in shelters across the United States simply because there aren’t enough homes for them all. When you adopt, you’re giving one of these dogs the loving home they deserve and sparing them from being put down.
There are plenty of great reasons to adopt rather than purchase a dog from a breeder. Not only is it cheaper and easier in many cases, but you’ll also be giving an adorable pup the gift of life! What more could you ask for?
Here are some tips to help you out when it comes to adopting the right dog for your lifestyle.
What to Consider When Adopting a Dog
Adopting a dog is a huge decision! They become a part of the family and will be with you for many years.
There are several things you should take into consideration before taking the plunge and adopting a furry friend. This includes everything from whether or not you have the time to commit to a dog, to what size and breed of dog would be the best fit for your lifestyle and personality.
Time Commitment
Dogs require time, attention, and energy. They need to be fed, exercised, and taken out to use the restroom multiple times throughout the day. If you work long hours or travel frequently, it might not be the best time for you to adopt a dog. Dogs are social creatures that crave human interaction, so it’s important that they have someone to spend time with them.
Lifestyle
Dogs also require space to run around and play. If you live in a small apartment or don’t have a yard, that might not be the best environment for a high-energy dog breed. You should also think about whether or not you want a hypoallergenic breed if anyone in your home has allergies.
Personality
Last but not least, when considering what kind of dog to adopt, you need to think about what personality type of dog would be the best match for yours.
For example, if you’re active and enjoy spending time outdoors, adopting an energetic breed like a Labrador Retriever might be a good fit for you. If you prefer cuddling on the couch over going on hikes, maybe a Pug or Bulldog would be more your speed?
How to Decide Which Dog is Right for Your Lifestyle
Dogs are amazing animals that bring so much love and joy into our lives. They quickly become a part of the family, and we can’t imagine life without them. But with all the different kinds of dogs out there with very different needs in terms of care and environment, how do you know which one is right for you and your lifestyle? Here are a few things to consider when making your decision.
Families With Young Kids
If you have young kids at home, you’ll want a dog that is patient and good natured. You’ll also want a furry friend that is good with kids, as not all dogs are comfortable around them. Dogs that typically do well with kids include Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Beagles, and Bull Terriers.
Seniors
If you’re a senior citizen, you’ll want a small to medium sized dog that doesn’t require a lot of exercise. You’ll also want a pup that is calm, as seniors often don’t have the energy to deal with a high-energy dog. Some of the best dogs for seniors include Shih Tzus, Pugs, Bulldogs, and Basset Hounds.
Individuals Who Live in Apartments
If you live in an apartment or other small living space, you’ll want a small to medium sized dog that doesn’t require a lot of exercise. You’ll also want a dog that is relatively quiet so as not to disturb your neighbors. Dogs that meet these criteria include French Bulldogs, Poodles, Boston Terriers, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.
Outdoor Enthusiasts
If you enjoy spending time outdoors hiking, running, or playing fetch, you’ll want a dog that is active and enjoys being outdoors as much as you do. Dogs that love being active include Boxers, Siberian Huskies, Border Collies, and Australian Shepherds.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right dog for your lifestyle is an important decision. There are so many wonderful dogs in shelters all across the country, and it’s important to find one that will be compatible with how you live your life. We hope this guide has been helpful in determining which dogs’ size and activity level would be right for you!