#dog - #Looking to get my first dog, need help choosing breed.

Looking to get my first dog, need help choosing breed.

So I'm looking into getting a dog for my birthday, I (unfortunately) have some parameters and I'm wondering if anyone can help me pick a breed that's right for me. I need a hypoallergenic dog, I have a family member that I live with that needs that. I want a dog that'd be a "bud" a best friend. Someone to hang out with. I want a dog that has the energy to go out and play but won't keep my up at night. If you have any more questions about what I'm looking for feel free to ask.

(EDIT) I think I'd prefer a younger dog by the way, one I could "grow up" with. (DOUBLE EDIT) Here's a questionnaire I found on another sub reddit:

1) Will this be your first dog? If not, what experience do you have owning/training dogs?

Yes, this will be my first dog. I live with someone that had a dog, but wasn't the primary care taker. That was many years ago anwyay.

2) Do you have a preference for rescuing a dog vs. going through a reputable breeder?

I don't mean to sound rude, or uncaring, but I don't think I have what it takes to have a rescue. Emotionally, or physically. I'd prefer going through a reputable breeder

3) Describe your ideal dog.

As seen in the original post.

4) What breeds or types of dogs are you interested in and why?

I've had my eye set on some dogs in the past, but for one reason or another can't get that kind of breed. Those include Huskies and Retrievers. 5) What sorts of things would you like to train your dog to do?

I don't want a plaything to parade around doing tricks, I want a best friend. That being said I would like the dog to be able to walk without a leash and be civil.

Care Commitments

6) How long do you want to devote to training, playing with, or otherwise interacting with your dog each day?

I'm still in school, but when I'm not home someone usually is. When I do get home I can devote a lot of hours to the dog and I can usually devote entire weekends.

7) How long can you exercise your dog each day, on average? What sorts of exercise are you planning to give your dog regularly and does that include using a dog park?

I currently don't exercise, but I have a great park near me and I live in a great area to walk a dog in. I'd be up for walking a dog for 45 minutes to an hour on most days. If it's nice out I can go for longer.

8) How much regular brushing are you willing to do? Are you open to trimming hair, cleaning ears, or doing other grooming at home? If not, would you be willing to pay a professional to do it regularly?

I'd be willing to pay a professional, especially since I don't trust myself not to hurt the dog. I'd, of course, be willing to take care of it in any small things whenever needed.

Personal Preferences

9) What size dog are you looking for?

I don't want something tiny, and my family members don't want something absolutely massive. I'd prefer a larger to midsized dog.

10) How much shedding, barking, and slobber can you handle?

Very little slobber, and probably little shedding. Hypoallergenic is best. As for barking, if he/she is happy why not let them show it! (Just as long as it's not the middle of the night)

11) How important is being able to let your dog off-leash in an unfenced area?

Like I said earlier I'd like to be able to walk with my buddy without a leash.

Dog Personality and Behavior

12) Do you want a snuggly dog or one that prefers some personal space?

I can't overstate this, I'm looking for a best friend. That includes the ocassional snuggle of course.

13) Would you prefer a dog that wants to do its own thing or one that's more eager-to-please?

I'm not really sure how to answer this one. I sound like a broken record, but I want a friend. I don't want a yes dog though. (If that makes sense)

14) How would you prefer your dog to respond to someone knocking on the door or entering your yard? How would you prefer your dog to greet strangers or visitors?

I want my dog to be friendly to strangers as long as they are friendly to the dog.

15) Are you willing to manage a dog that is aggressive to other dogs?

I'd prefer a friendly dog.

16) Are there any other behaviors you can't deal with or want to avoid?

I do not want a "mean" dog, or a dog that enjoys killing small animals.

Lifestyle

17) How often and how long will the dog be left alone?

Possibly for an hour or 2 a day, but only on rare occasions. Usually never on the weekends unless I go out to dinner.

18) What are the dog-related preferences of other people in the house and what will be their involvement in caring for the dog?

Hypoallergenic, taking care when I'm not around.

19) Do you have other pets or are you planning on having other pets? What breed or type of animal are they?

Nope

20) Will the dog be interacting with children regularly?

Most likely not, but I still want it to be kind of small children. 21) Do you rent or plan to rent in the future? If applicable, what breed or weight restrictions are on your current lease?

Nope, not currently.

22) What city or country do you live in and are you aware of any laws banning certain breeds?

Florida, America and no.

23) What is the average temperature of a typical summer and winter day where you live?

It gets kinda hot in the summer, and cool in the winter but not cold.

Submitted April 08, 2017 at 08:19PM by mwthecool
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