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Which Dog Should I Get?

The acquisition of a dog is imminent? Then you are spoiled for choice between around 340 different dog breeds. With our tips, you will find out which of them is the perfect partner for you.

Who are you and which dog fits?

  • Your dream dog should have a similar level of activity as you
  • Hunting dogs and herding dogs are more suitable for experienced dog owners
  • Well-balanced breeds like retrievers, poodles, or pugs are recommended for beginners.
  • Time, money, and the living situation also play a decisive role in the choice.
  • Please keep in mind that breed-typical characteristics differ from dog to dog.

Active dogs for active people

Sporty or cozy, large or small, uncomplicated or demanding? Surely you have certain ideas about what your fluffy friend should be like. First, however, you should really think about who you really are. Real sports enthusiasts will find their animal counterparts as well as cozy couch potatoes. It just has to fit!

Sporty dogs

Do you like to exercise, do a lot, and have no objection to dog sports? Then agile, persistent breeds such as the Australian Shepherd, the Malinois, or the Beagle are good for you. Hounds like the Rhodesian Ridgeback or the Dalmatian are ideal companions for joggers and cyclists.

  • Jogging with a dog
  • Cycling with a dog

Companion dogs

Which breed of dog is right for me and my family? If you are looking for a friend for children and adults, there are wonderful animals to choose from. So-called family and companion dogs have a balanced, calm, and friendly character. You are adaptable and loyal. And they are also diverse in their appearance: The Great Dane is one of them, as is the Chihuahua, the retriever, as well as the pinscher. Imposing breeds such as Bernese Mountain Dogs, Leonberger, and Boxers are also very cuddly, relaxed, and have a calm temperament.

  • Family dogs

Cozy dogs

Do you expect your new four-legged friend to spend long hours of cuddling? Then you’ll be happy with a Maltese or a French Bulldog.

  • Cuddly dogs
  • Cozy dogs

How do you live?

Do you live in a city apartment without a lift? In a house with a garden in the country? Or urban, but surrounded by parks and meadows?

Your living situation also influences your choice of breed. Shepherds, dachshunds, and large breeds should avoid walking stairs if possible because they are prone to joint damage.

Active breeds like the Rhodesian Ridgeback or the Dalmatian enjoy several hours of free running a day. It is useful when there are forests, fields, and meadows in the immediate vicinity.

On the other hand, bulldogs and Maltese can get by in a small city apartment and with less exercise.

The apartment itself should also be appropriate for the size of the animal. Large dogs simply stand or lie in the way more often in smaller apartments. Dog beds and baskets also need their space.

  • Apartment dogs

A dog costs time and money

When you get a dog, your entire everyday life will change. Going for a walk, dog sports, grooming, visits to the vet, dog training, running outdoors and thinking games all take up a lot of time. Sporty and intelligent dogs like the Border Collie or the Belgian Shepherd Dog are generally considered to be more time-consuming. In order to be physically and mentally busy, they have to be challenged – every day.

Running cost guzzlers

Future dog owners often underestimate the running costs for a dog. Of course, the purchase also costs money: dogs from the breeder are many times more expensive than four-legged friends from the animal shelter. The basic equipment with bowls, leashes, dog beds, and toys is also on the budget. In the long term, however, the costs vary greatly – also depending on the size of the animal. So massive dogs devour much larger amounts of food. The costs for dog tax, liability insurance and, if applicable, health insurance is also calculated depending on the breed.

Do you already have experience?

Uncomplicated beginner dogs

Never had your own dog? Don’t worry – there are many breeds that, because of their uncomplicated character, are ideal as beginner dogs that don’t require a lot of time and effort. They are usually characterized by a pronounced “will to please” and a high level of adaptability. With their friendly, easy-going nature, beginner dogs also fit in wonderfully into the family. Here are some breeds at a glance:

  • Golden retriever
  • Poodle
  • Pug
  • French or English bulldog

Demanding dogs for professionals

Do you know a lot about dogs and do you trust yourself to be a demanding comrade? Most herding, hunting, and guard dogs fall equally into this category. All three were bred to make independent decisions and take responsibility. As a house and family dog, this is not necessarily an advantage. Whether Hovawart, German Shepherd, Dachshund or Terrier – if your instinct gets away with them, your master’s admonitions are flash in the pan. In order to create a stimulus that is stronger than the drive, it takes know-how and a lot of practice.

Are you often absent?

Friends and acquaintances as dog sitters

It can always happen that you are temporarily unable to look after your dog. Whether work, vacation or illness – there are many reasons. Therefore, clarify in advance where your furry friend will be staying in case of doubt. Would your mum-in-law or a friend be willing to temporarily look after your four-legged friend? Wonderful! But are you afraid of German shepherds? Then, for better or for worse, you will have to do without your Inspector Rex. Trustworthy dog sitters make life a lot easier.

Dog boarding as a hoard

Another way to accommodate your four-legged friend is a boarding house. However, not all dogs are suitable candidates for this. Incompatible and poorly socialized animals are usually not taken in at all. Some breeds, such as the Hovawart or the Harz fox, are also not very interested in conspecifics. You feel most comfortable with your favorite people and are unhappy in the dog hotel.

Our recommendation: be honest with yourself – then you will find what you are looking for!

Finding the right dog is not an easy decision. Ultimately, a long-term partnership should be created. Include a few key aspects in your decision:

Pick a breed that likes to move as much as you do – or not. Whether you are a passionate walker, couch potato, or sports fanatic – there is a four-legged friend for every character type.

Your immediate living environment plays just as important a role as time and money. What can you offer the animal?

Demanding dogs are only suitable for experienced dog owners. So-called beginner dogs are straightforward and require less consistent training

And last but not least: listen to your heart too! The wisest decision doesn’t make you happy if the heart doesn’t play along.

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