Which Breeds Are Best?
Honestly, I dislike this question. Each breed was created for different things. They have their instincts and what they are good at. The real question is ‘Which Breed Suits My Lifestyle? ‘. That is the question I will answer.
When looking at getting any dog, people should ask themselves these questions before even looking at breeds.
- What kind of lifestyle do you lead?
- How much time do I spend at work?
- How much free time do I have?’
- Do I have the space for a dog?
- What are my HOA rules or Apartment rules regarding dogs?
- What do I want to do with a dog?
- Am I willing to invest in training for my dog?
- Does the rest of the family want a dog and who would be the main caretaker?
Then I want people to think about do they want a dog to go on runs with them, out and about with them? Or do they want a dog that will primarily stay at home and cuddle? Do you want to get into dog specific activities and sports? What kind of energy level do you have when you are not at work? Then start researching the breed you are interested in and see if they match up with you.
For example, if you live in the city, have an apartment, work 40+ hours a week and on your time off just want to relax a high energy dog probably is not the best fit, whether that is a small, medium or large dog. Example of different sized high energy breeds are most small Terriers like a Miniature Pinscher, Jack Russell Terrier, Miniature Schnauzer or even Shiba Inus. Medium high energy dogs like Australian Cattle dogs, Australian Shepherds; and I would include labs and golden retrievers, however those are more temperament based. There is also Weimaraner’s, any breed in the Hound Family, and the Malinois family. Then I would advise to stay clear of large breeds like Malamutes, Anatolian Shepherds, Great Pyrenees, and most of the Mastiff Family. The reason I mentioned these breeds is that they are very high energy, high drive, very intelligent, need mental and physical stimulation. They require a committed owner who is willing to put in all the extra time and work to have a healthy well-balanced dog.
When researching the different breeds, you are interested in and know what kind of lifestyle you have I advise reaching out and talking with multiple trainers, finding ethical breeders, talking to breed specific rescues, and reading up on the history of that breed so that you know what they were originally bred for. Also research the common health concerns that are typical in that breed. Are you willing to put in the money to address those concerns? That way you have a well-rounded knowledge of the breeds you are interested in. I don’t always advise chatting with breed groups as everyone has their own opinions on their breed and what one person’s dog does verses another’s does not always reflect the breed standard. As no matter each dog has their own personality, and we don’t know what kind of work, lifestyle, and attention has gone into their dogs. Most trainers and breeders can answer your questions. Be very specific in what you are looking for and you may find that the breed you want isn’t the best fit and that is ok!
This is exactly what happened to me! I was ready to get my own dog finally, I was looking for one that would be friendly, easy to train, and that would be my side kick in my adventures! So, as I have worked with plenty of rescues and found a love for Golden Retrievers. However, after lots of looking and reflecting on what I was going to be doing I realized a Golden was not the best fit and end up with my Callie girl who is an Australian Cattle Dog or also known as a Blue or Red Heeler, she is medium sized no more than 50lbs max and loves to go hiking. These dogs are not easy dogs to have if you do not have experience with them but as a dog trainer, I knew I could handle her and she would be great!
To see mine and Callies adventures please check out our Instagram: @Callie_Calyspo
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