Dog Nightmares: How Do You Avoid Choosing The Wrong Dog?

We have had our share of dog nightmares over the years.  This led to ruined carpet, chewed furniture and total chaos!  Asking the right questions when choosing a dog can help you avoid this dilemma.  We didn't know what to ask before getting a dog.  But, we do now!

How big will this dog get?  This is important.  By looking at its paws you can usually tell if the dog will be small.  But, don't let that fool you!  There are always exceptions to this rule!  Ask!  Nothing is worse than thinking you will have an average size dog, and you end with a mini grizzly bear instead!  If you live in a tiny house you want to make sure the dog has plenty of room to run around.  You don't want to be stepping on the poor thing all the time.

Does the dog interact well with children?  If you don't have children of your own you may not think to ask this question.  However, your neighbors, relatives and people throughout your neighborhood most likey have a kid or two.  How will the dog react to them?

How difficult will it be to housetrain the dog?  I personally don't like to clean up dog messes.  Some dogs are difficult to train.  If the dog is difficult by nature you can ask for some advice on ways to house train.  It helps.  And remember, the dog is NOT going to train itself.

What kind of genetic medical illnesses run in the particular breed?  How often do they require veterinary care?  If you have children or become attached to your pet and it is going to die in a few years from a genetic defect, or this is a dog who requires a ton of vet care and you cannot afford it, you might want to consider a different dog.

Some dogs needs to be fed a certain diet, avoiding all table food and need a strict exercise regimen.  Is the dog you are considering one of these?  Although doing thse things can prolong the life of some dogs, some people don't want the hassle.  Can you take the time to do for the dog?

What kind of personality does the dog have?  You have to decide whether you want the dog for protection or affection.  Is the dog usually hyper or more of a lapdog?  Finding out if the dog has a tendency to bark at everything is important to.

If you plan on leaving the dog alone all day while you are at work you definitely want to know if they experience separation anxiety.  You don't want to come home and have your curtains or sofa torn to pieces!

Some dogs require a daily walk.  Is this dog one of them?  If you know you are not going to have time for a dog with special needs keep this in mind when considering what dog you want.  Most dogs love to play, but some really need to play on a daily basis.

Are you planning on traveling with your dog?  You better ask if the dog has a tendency to get car sick!  Been there, didn't ask.  The vet has to come to the house!

Dogs are loyal and they are affectionate.  You just have to decide which one fits your lifestyle.  Are you fun loving and carefree?  A mutt might be a good choice.  Can you command a room?  A doberman might be for you. Can you tend to a dog that is demanding, yet totally loving?  Try a pug!  Whatever you choose, consider the needs of the dog. In the end, everyone wins!