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  • What Breed of Dog Should I Get?

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    Besides basic care, we often get asked about different breeds of dogs and cats. Clients want to make sure that they get the right dog or cat for their life, so they always ask to see if we can help them.

    I recently wrote an article about figuring out what breed of cat you should get. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, you can check it out here.

    I know that you wanted to know about breeds, so I wrote another article about choosing the right breed of cat. Here is the article if you haven’t had a chance to read it.

    Now, when it comes to choosing the right breed of dog, it is similar to finding the right cat. Breed isn’t as important as some of the other factors.

    Here are some things that you need to think about before you stop and get the first cute puppy that you find!

    You should consider the size of the dog that you are going to have. 

    Puppies can be deceiving. Most puppies aren’t going to stay as little as they are now. You could get a puppy that grows up to be five pounds all the way up to over one hundred pounds!

    If you live in a smaller home, you probably won’t want to get a dog that is massive. A smaller dog will still be able to get plenty of energy out just running around your home.

    You also need to think about your lifestyle. 

    Do you have the energy for a puppy who needs to be played with constantly? Are you going to be able to work and then come home and play with a new puppy for a few hours? Or would you prefer an older or more laid back dog that would be happy to sit on the couch every night?

    Are you into hiking and want a companion to spend hours on the trail with a week? Do you want a walking companion for daily walks around the neighborhood? Do you have a fenced-in backyard where a dog can run around and play?

    If you have a lot of guests, you are going to want a dog or puppy that is as social as you are. If you want to be able to take your dog everywhere, you are going to need a more laid-back dog!

    Though you may like shaggy dogs, you need to think about the amount of grooming your new dog may need. 

    Although many dogs need regular baths and brushing, there are some that require more. Many dogs, like smaller dogs and doodles, need regular grooming appointments every six to twelve weeks. If you don’t have the funds or time for all of that extra work, you may want to stick to a breed that has short hair.

    You also don’t need to get a puppy. 

    Though puppies can be a lot of fun, they are a lot of work. There is nothing wrong with deciding that you want to try for an adult or mature dog. If you don’t have the time to devote to a puppy, older dogs need homes just as much as puppies do!

    Choosing the right breed of dog isn’t as important as the kind of dog that you get. You need to decide what size dog you want, as well as what type of hair. Do you want to spend hours brushing your dog’s hair, as well as taking him or her to the groomer on a regular basis?

    It would help if you also thought about your lifestyle. Do you have the time for a puppy? Or would an older dog suit your sedentary lifestyle? Do you have a small apartment? Or do you have a fenced-in yard where an active dog could go crazy?

    As long as you think carefully and pick wisely, any dog that you get will be lucky to have you (and you him or her)!

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    Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Even though I am a veterinary professional, this blog is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Tips for Choosing the Right Pet for your Apartment

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    Pet lovers have one thing in common. Even if they live in a tiny studio apartment, they need a pet in their lives. This can result in some challenges, especially with a large, active dog in a small apartment. For this reason, pet owners should carefully consider their pet choices, taking into account their location.

    Here are some tips for choosing the right pet for your apartment.

    Smaller is often better. 

    The smaller the apartment that you have, the smaller your dog should be. You probably won’t want a Great Dane in an apartment where you struggle to breathe. Instead, think small. Cats usually do well in small apartments, too, for those who prefer furry felines.

    Temperament is equally important. 

    Many dogs have too much energy, and they can become bored in a small apartment, especially if they are unable to get outside and play for several hours every day. If left alone, they may chew furniture, shoes, and anything else that they can get in their mouths.

    It would be much better to find a dog that is more laid-back, as well as one that is not a barker. You don’t want to make your neighbors angry because your dog barks every time someone moves.

    Do they need a buddy? 

    Besides needing to get energy out, some dogs and cats require company to be happy. You need to ensure that you can have more than one dog or cat; therefore, you should find two that will be well-suited for apartment living.

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    Think about shedding. 

    Most dogs and cats shed a lot. You might be overwhelmed with all of that hair in a small apartment. You might end up cleaning all the time. Some breeds shed less than others, so you might want to look into one of those. Many smaller poodle breeds don’t seem to shed as much as other breeds. Another option is long-haired dogs and cats whose hair comes out in clumps.

    What about other animals? 

    You might want to think outside the box, getting a pet other than a dog or cat. A fish tank is a great way to start, and you can choose from various types of fish, bringing beauty to your apartment.

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    What about an animal that lives in a cage? Many people start with hamsters, gerbils, rats, rabbits, or any other cute, fuzzy creature. Reptiles are another popular pet choice for apartments. Some people get birds for their apartments.

    Before you even consider getting a pet, it’s essential to check if your apartment allows pets. 

    Though most apartments may not mind if you have a pet in a cage, it never hurts to ask. You don’t want to be kicked out of a great apartment because of your pet rabbit.

    If they do allow cats and dogs, make sure that there are no restrictions on them. Some will not allow specific breeds or sizes of dogs to make life in the apartment complex a little easier. They may also have other restrictions, such as the number of animals, so be sure to follow all the rules.

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    Having a pet can be one of the best parts of life. However, not every pet is perfect for apartment living. You must choose carefully so that you can enjoy life with your beloved pet by your side. Before you start looking, ensure that you are allowed to have pets and check for any restrictions. Then, start looking carefully. Their temperament is essential. You need a dog or cat that will be happy living in a smaller space.

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    Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • What Are the Best Dogs for Kids?

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    When you decide that it is the right time to bring home a new puppy or dog for your family, it can be an overwhelming time, especially when you start looking at all the breeds that are out there! You also need to think about whether you want to start with a puppy or get a dog that is older. You may be able to find a dog that is already potty-trained and ready to join your family.

    So, how can you choose the right dog for your family? Here are some tips to help.

    Think about the care required. 

    Are you and your family ready for a puppy? Do you have time to potty-train a young puppy? Would you prefer an older dog (maybe one or two years old) that is already potty-trained and knows what is expected of him or her? Maybe you would prefer an older dog who just wants to enjoy life and lie around the house.

    You also need to consider the needs of the dog you are choosing.

     Dogs have different needs. Consider how much food they will be eating. A Great Dane will go through a huge bag of food in a matter of days, while a ten-pound dog may only go through a small bag a month.

    Consider the grooming your dog will require. 

    Many dogs require a visit to the groomer every six to eight weeks, which can be a significant expense when you are counting every dollar you spend.

    It helps to figure out who is going to be doing what when it comes to the new dog.

     If you get a puppy, who will be in charge of training and socialization? Every dog needs to be fed and watered on a regular basis. Then, they will need to be taken for walks multiple times a day. Playtime is also essential for any dog. Even if you have a fenced-in yard, your new dog will need to be taken care of multiple times a day.

    Size is also important. 

    Though you may not want a large breed dog around your small children, a tiny dog might be too fragile for your energetic bunch! If one of your children falls on your little puppy, broken bones might happen.

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    You also need to think about the size of your house and yard. If you live in a small apartment, you aren’t going to want to get a large-breed dog. There isn’t enough room! A smaller dog will have plenty of room to play in your small living room. If you have a few acres fenced in, consider getting a dog that loves to run and play outside.

    You can’t forget about their energy level! 

    Certain dog breeds are more active than others. You aren’t going to want to get a herding dog that is going to be spending most of his or her time inside! These dogs need to be outside playing and would be great for someone who loves to go on hikes and is very active.

    Some breeds are more laid-back, making them a good fit for a family that enjoys spending time indoors. These dogs would be happy sitting on the couch with you in the evenings. You won’t be able to take them on hikes every day!

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    Once you have narrowed down the size and breed of the dog you are looking for, it’s time to start considering potential ones. 

    With each potential dog you look at, consider their personality and temperament. A nervous dog isn’t going to do well in a home full of children. Even one child may be too much for an anxious dog.

    Some dogs are playful and happy-go-lucky, while others are very easygoing and calm. You need to ensure that your dog matches your family’s personality.

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    It can be challenging to find the right dog for your family, but taking the extra time to do so will ensure that you can enjoy your new dog for years to come. Getting the wrong dog can be very hard on a family. So, really look at the care that your new dog will need, as well as their energy level. Their personality is also vital.

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    Please note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.