10 Things to Consider Before Getting a Dog

Author: Louise Louis

1. Are there any size or weight restrictions on dogs within yourcondominium or community? Many won't allow dogs over 30-pounds.

2. Do you keep your home very warm? Some dogs are bothered bywarm room temperatures. A Chihuahua would be a better choicethan Shih Tzu in that case.

3. How much dog can you lift? A Pug is a happy-go-luckycompanion but may weigh 18-pounds while a Yorkshire Terrierusually doesn't exceed 7-pounds.

4. How much grooming can you do? If arthritis is a problem,avoid longhaired breeds such as Pekingese or Maltese and look atshort, smooth-haired dogs such as Toy Manchester Terrier.Beautiful coats are beautiful because they're groomed daily.

5. How much exercise does the dog need? Any Terrier is ahigh-energy dog requiring outdoor exercise. On the other hand,an English Toy Spaniel or Japanese Chin can get all the exercisethey need inside an apartment.

6. Is the breed's temperament a good match with you? Some peoplefind Toy Poodles too challenging and would do better with thesweet-tempered Papillon.

7. Are you prepared for the costs of dog ownership? The bareminimum estimate for dog ownership is $1 a day.

8. Can you acquire pet insurance? Many companies offer grouprates to their employees and retirees.

9. Would being a ""foster"" owner satisfy your need for caninecompanionship? Even if you don't want to take a dog into yourhome, shelters always need people who can walk and play with thedogs or provide temporary housing.

10. Finally, have you considered what happens to your dog if youcan't care for him? Toy breeds often live 15-years or longer. Besure to include instructions in your will on how your pet shouldbe placed.

With a little forethought and planning, you can select the rightbreed of dog for your lifestyle and enjoy many happy yearstogether.

About the author:Former dog breed and all-round dog person, Louise Louis nowoperates a website, toybreeds.com dedicated to helping peopleselect the best small dog breed for their lifestyle.