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.

  • Step 1 - Reality questionnaire
  • Step 3 - My dogs life with me
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