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How to Choose the Right Dog for You

  • May 16
  • 3 min read

Adopting a dog is an exciting process – looking into the eyes of an adorable furry friend in need of a home can make us want to adopt instantly! 


However, remember that pet ownership is a lifelong commitment that comes with many responsibilities. So, before you hit apply, read through the following considerations to ensure that you choose the right dog for you. It’s in both your and your new pet’s best interest!


In a park, a large golden dog sniffs a small white and brown dog with long hair

Breed

Different dog breeds have different needs! Some of the main considerations when it comes to breed include: size, grooming, exercise, instinct, and temperament.Size

One of the most obvious considerations is size. Do you have enough space in your home for your dog to comfortably live? Do they have enough room to run around in a backyard or park?


Grooming

Some breeds’ coats require much more grooming time than others. Similarly, some breeds will increase your vacuum time due to shedding!Exercise

While some pooches love to sit and rest all day long, some require multiple hours of exercise every day. This can be walks, playing fetch or any other kind of exercise.


Instinct

Certain breeds have instinctive activities that you might want to consider. For example, sporting dogs, like retrievers, have been used for finding and retrieving game. As such, they often enjoy obedience training and take commands well.


Temperament

Lastly, try to get to know a dog’s temperament before making a decision. Some dogs have more passive tendencies. While some dogs may be glued to your hip, others are naturally more independent and might not be as into cuddles. 


New Hope Dog Rescue (NHDR) often hosts events in Saskatoon and around Saskatchewan so you can get to know the adoptable dogs’ personalities. Sometimes you can even chat with the dog’s foster for more specific details. Check out our events page to stay up to date.


Outside, a cat looks curiously at a panting dog

Existing household

Remember that even though a dog might get along great with you, they might not necessarily be a good fit for others.


This includes other household members who would be living with and assisting in caring for your dog. Ensure that they are prepared for a dog and understand the responsibilities and changes that can come with it. This could include things like a training phase for puppies, or any potential allergies.


Children and other pets are another important consideration when choosing which dog is right for you and your household. Depending on a dog’s background, they may prefer to be the only pet in the building! NHDR’s adoptable dogs are always listed alongside their compatibility to others, like kids, dogs and cats, to help you make an informed decision. 


A golden, teenaged dog with a tennis ball in its mouth walks along the beach with a young girl

Cost

Different dogs will have different cost requirements, so make sure you are informed on what a potential adoptable dog might need in terms of cost.


Things like a dog’s size and age, as well as its grooming, exercise, and medical needs can all have an impact on cost.


See more from the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association for an estimate of the cost of pet ownership on an annual basis.



A large white dog runs alongside people in a marathon

Time Commitment and Lifestyle

Ensure that the lifestyle of the dog you are considering adopting matches well with yours. Here are some questions to ask yourself when it comes to lifestyle compatibility:


  • Do I have the time to commit to caring for this dog, given my work and social schedule?

  • Do I have extra time to spend on bonding and training a puppy?

  • Do I have the mental energy to train a puppy right now, considering chewing, barking, and high energy?

  • Am I looking for a pet who is more independent or dependent?

  • Do I want to dedicate time everyday to grooming?

  • Do I work long hours or travel a lot? Do I need a dog who will travel with me?

  • Am I able to exercise with the dog everyday?


Do a fun quiz from the American Kennel Club to help you further consider what type of dog you might be interested in. 


A woman hugs her large brown dog

There’s a lot to think about when it comes to choosing the right dog for you. But, it is well worth the time to know that you will end up with a dog that is compatible for you and your lifestyle. You will be able to rest assured that you and your dog will live happy lives together!


Now that you have a better understanding of what kind of dog is right for you, check out “Adoption Process — How Does it Work?” on NHDR’s adoption process!

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