Things to Consider Before You Get A Dog

You should:

•     Evaluate your own circumstances and lifestyle (linkto to questions below).
•     List the traits you consider essential in finding the perfect canine match for you and your family.

Visit the AKC’s website to research breeds. http://www.akc.org/breeds/index.cfm

•     Every breed listed has a parent breed club that sets the standard for that breed. Additional information on the breeds can be found on each parent club’s website, including information on health, temperament, and exercise needs.
•     Also check out some of the many books published on finding the right dog for you and books devoted to individual breeds.
•     Consider taking the quiz https://www.akc.org/dog-breed-selector/ to find the right dog for you.

This research may save you from falling in love with a breed you find attractive but that might be inappropriate for you. You might even discover that dog ownership is not the answer to your companionship needs.

If the responsibilities of raising a new puppy seem overwhelming, you might consider adopting an older dog from one of the purebred rescue services listed in this directory. “Rescue” dogs include strays, dogs surrendered to a shelter or pound or those turned over directly by the previous owner to the rescue service. These dogs normally are evaluated by the rescue service prior to being matched with the best possible home. Many wonderful dogs are being adopted annually and you may just find your next best dog waiting for you there.

Questions to ask yourself before you get a dog:

• Do I have the time to train, care for, and engage with a dog?
• Is my lifestyle conducive to being responsible for a dog?
• Is my home appropriate for the type of dog I want?
• Do I have the time and space to exercise the dog?
• Is someone available at regular times every day to feed and walk the dog?
• Do I have the time to provide mental stimulation for the dog at a level that is appropriate for its breed and personality?
• Do I have the financial resources to cover expenses related to having a dog? Expenses such as: food, grooming, license, and veterinary care
• Do I want a puppy or do I want an older dog?

Where to get a dog?

There is no single answer to that question since it depends on what you want.  If you are interested in a particular breed then the obvious place to start is with reputable breeders of that breed and/or that breed’s rescue.

If you are interested in a mixed breed dog, then we recommend checking with your local shelters and their associated rescue groups.