Choosing a new dog to join your family is like picking your ideal partner—except they’ll always love you, never steal your snacks (okay, maybe sometimes), and will be thrilled every time you come home, whether you’ve been gone for five minutes or five hours. But with so many options, from tiny puppies to experienced older dogs, how do you know which furry companion is the best fit for your life? In this blog we’re going to talk about how to choose your perfect Furchild and weigh up the pros and cons of a puppy, rescue or golden oldie.
I’ve had the pleasure of helping lots of pawrents find their perfect dog, and I’m here to give you some tips on how to choose the one that will fill both your hearts with joy.
Are You Ready for Puppy Parenthood?
Puppies are cute, they’re playful, and they have that intoxicating new-dog smell, but they are not for the faint of heart. Welcoming a puppy into your home is a lot like bringing a baby into the family—think sleepless nights, chewing on everything (yes, everything), and, let’s be honest, accidents in the house.
If you’ve got the time, energy, and patience to raise a puppy, they can grow into the perfect lifelong companion. Training from a young age is key here, and at Little Angels Dog Training, I love showing puppy guardians how to use fun, force-free games to teach basic behaviours like recall and loose leash walking. But remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Puppyhood is packed with ups and downs, and your consistency, and maybe a little wine (for you, not the pup) will be crucial in shaping your pup into your perfect dog.
The Magic of Rescue Dogs
Ah, rescue dogs—there’s something so special about giving a dog a second chance. Whether they’re a puppy, a middle-aged mutt, or a senior with a few gray whiskers, rescue dogs can make incredible companions. I’m a sucker for a rescue dog. They come with their own personalities, quirks, and sometimes a bit of baggage, but they’re also some of the most loving and loyal dogs out there.
If you’re considering rescuing, ask yourself if you’re ready to invest time in building trust. Some rescue dogs may have had less-than-ideal pasts, and they’ll need a patient, understanding pet guardian who’s willing to go at their pace. But the rewards? Oh, they’re huge. Imagine being the person who helps a scared, shy dog transform into a confident, tail-wagging companion. That’s what I call magic. In fact, Brockasauras was a rescue dog. He came with some pretty challenging behaviours (like opening the fridge door) and is totally the reason why I threw corporate life aside and became a dog trainer. They say that you don’t always get the dog that you want but you always get the dog you need. I needed Brock and he needed me. The rest is history!
Rescue dogs can be a bit of a mixed bag when it comes to training, too. Some may already know basic cues, while others might not have had any formal training at all. But that’s where I come in! With games-based training, we can work together to build their confidence and teach them how to be their best selves. And don’t worry if they’re not a puppy anymore—older dogs can learn new tricks. Trust me, I’ve seen it. You can check out my blog on Teaching Old Dogs New Tricks Through Playful Training for game ideas.
Why You Might Want to Adopt a Senior
Now, let’s talk about the golden oldies—those sweet senior dogs that everyone overlooks because, well, they’re not puppies anymore. Here’s a little secret: senior dogs are often some of the best companions you’ll ever find. They’re typically more relaxed, already house-trained (yay!), and happy to just chill out with you. Plus, they don’t come with that puppy chaos. My friend, Maria, is a softy for a golden oldie.
Adopting a senior dog can be a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a low-key companion who’s already past the learning-how-to-be-a-dog stage. Sure, they might have some health issues down the line, but honestly, who doesn’t? Whether it’s a bit of arthritis or just needing a comfy spot to rest their weary bones, senior dogs are experts at appreciating the simple joys in life, like a warm bed and a scratch on the butt.
What Breed is Right For You?
When it comes to breed, think about your energy levels and lifestyle. Do you like long walks, running, or hiking? You might want an active breed like a Border Collie or a Labrador Retriever to keep up with you. Prefer quiet nights in with a good book? A more laid-back breed like a Bichon Frise or a Greyhound might be more your speed. Just make sure you research the breed’s typical temperament, energy needs, and grooming requirements—because while I’m all for hanging out with your pup, you probably don’t want a grooming session that takes longer than watching Lord of The Rings.
A Few Final Thoughts
Choosing a dog isn’t just about what they can bring to your life; it’s also about what you can offer them. Be honest about your lifestyle. If you work long hours and don’t have much time for exercise, a high-energy dog might end up bouncing off the walls (and driving you a little bonkers). On the other hand, if you’re an active person who loves outdoor adventures, a more laid-back dog could get frustrated if they don’t get enough exercise and stimulation.
No matter what age, breed, or background your future dog comes from, the most important thing is that you’re committed to giving them the love, patience, and time they need to survive and thrive in our human world. And, if you need a little help along the way, that’s what I’m here for! Whether you’re raising a puppy, training a rescue, or helping a senior dog settle in, Little Angels Dog Training is ready to support you and your furry family member every step of the way.
So, what kind of dog is right for you? Whichever one you choose, make sure you’re ready for the journey, and trust me—it’s going to be a tail-wagging good time.
Need Some Help with Your Decision?
Choosing your new furry family member is a big decision, and it’s okay to have questions! Whether you’re leaning towards a playful puppy, a rescue dog, or a laid-back senior, I’m here to help. Feel free to reach out for advice on the best fit for your lifestyle.
Game on! Let’s play!
Hxx
- Written with the assistance of AI
- Links have been manually checked
