Compatability is not a simple thing to arrive at, however, this list should help. For the owner; make a list of your characteristics and lifestyle preferences. For those that like to travel ALL OF THE TIME and wish to leave their pet at home or in a Kennel, this is an easy one-DO NOT GET A PET, you are too important and have too many places and people to see. Kennels are occassionally needed but they are not meant to be homes for a liftetime.
There is not a right or wrong way to apporach this, just give it some thought. Example, if you have a low tolerance for shedding, don't get a dog that sheds massive amounts of dog hair. All dogs shed for the most part, some more so than others. If you don't like getting outside and exercizing, then pick a breed that doesn't require alot of excercise and is a lower energy level pet. Now, providing that you have not been offended, here is Nuni11's list.
-Breed:
-Group (Herding toy etc etc…)
-Size:
-Energy level:
-Need for outdoor exercise:
-Training potential:
-Protectiveness/guarding behavior:
-Friendliness:
-Vocalization:
-Show quality:
-Coat length:
-Coat color:
-Shedding:
-Need for grooming:
-Good with children:
-Good with cats:
-Good with other dogs:
-Age:
-Other:
Hope this helps everyone who will be adding a new furry friend to the family. To get all of these things you want to have for your dog please take this up to the pet store manager,breeder,vet or professional pet trainer and ask them what dog best fits your profile list. In addition, here are a few things you will need for your new dog; three toys for him/her, a bag of dog food depending on age, puppy, pup, adult etc... a food bowl and a water bowl. (If you have a puppy, mix three teaspoons of water in with the dry food it makes it easier for him/her to digest, don't soak it and make it gummy, just soften it a bit) If you have new carpet or hard wood floors, make sure to place food and water on a carpeted surface or on a feeding and watering mat, you will slip and fall if the wood floor is wet with your dog’s water mouth drainage. A metal crate for him/her if you are going to initially crate train your pet (Make sure you read and research "how to crate train" before attempting this task blindly). Crate training is not meant for obedience, it's a safe quite place for your pet to sleep or stay if you are away from the home for a few hours. Most of us have to work. We will discuss more on crate training at a later time. But Crate training can serve many purposes. Pets like to "den" especially dogs. It's also a safe place to go in the event of a broken glass on the floor and during clean-up. Many pets like to have a blanket draped over their crate for privacy to snuggle. Hope this was helpful! From The Doghouse - Nuni11
