Step Two - My Life with my Dog
What breed should i get?
Think through your normal routine, leisure activities, holiday schedules and level of socialisation with others, (include family, friends, children, strangers and other animals) – how does a dog fit into this picture?
Read the following scenarios before moving on to tick the temperament qualities that best suit your lifestyle:
- Is your dog lively, alert and able to keep pace with your activity? Or, are they content to sit at your feet while you read or watch television?
- Are they friendly with humans? Or, are they reserved with strangers and/or protective of you and your shared space?
- Are they friendly with children, cats and other dogs? Or, are they disinterested, incompatible or possibly unpredictable?
- Are they playful, social and entertaining? Or, are they quiet, docile and/or aloof?
- Are they affectionate and thriving on your attention? Or, are they loyal, but independent?
- Are they attentive, obedient, but needing to be challenged? Or, are they alert and responsive, yet gentle and slow?
- Are they strong-willed, bold and ambitious? Or, are they easy-going and indulgent?
Breed Considerations
Given the considerations from the above, how important are the following temperament qualities?
Energy Levels
- Highly Active
- Energetic and Lively
- Adaptable
- Quiet and Docile
- Stoic and Aloof
Mental Attributes
- Determined, Bold and/or Fearless
- Intelligent
- Alert and Attentive
- Cheerful and/or Confident
- Sweet, perhaps also Gentle and Sensitive
- Physical Attributes
- Hardy and Sturdy
- Athletic
- Agile
- Capable
- Delicate
Relationship with Owner
- Protective
- Obedient/Responsive
- Loyal
- Playful
- Affectionate
Socialisation
- Highly Social
- Friendly
- Independent
- Reserved or Shy
- Wary and Suspicious
Feel like you have a good idea how this dog will meld into your life? Move to Step Three.
