03/05/2025
✨Adopt based on your lifestyle, not your aesthetic.✨
As a dog handler, I have worked with many different dog breeds. I absolutely adore working breeds (GSDs, B.C.s, Aussies, etc.), and I’d love nothing more than to have one of my own again🥹❤️. But, part of being a responsible pet owner is understanding that I cannot currently give the time and stimulation needed to keep one of the aforementioned breeds mentally healthy and happy💕.
I often see people looking for dogs because they match a certain image in their mind or a certain “status” that they hope to achieve when they obtain this dog. But, the truth is that the dog likely won’t fit the image if you are unable to ensure that their needs are met. Instead, you’ll find yourself with a dog that likely displays destructive tendencies or any other number of behavioral “issues,” because they don’t feel fulfilled🥲.
With that being said, I think that there is a fine line that should be acknowledged when it comes to genetics. Yes, certain breeds are more likely to exhibit certain traits. I absolutely believe that it is important to research any breed you are considering. But, it is also important to evaluate the individual dog in front of you🤩.
Here are some things that you should consider BEFORE bringing a dog home😎💕:
1️⃣GROOMING: Can you commit to the grooming needs of the dog?Doodles, poodles, and double coated dogs require the most intense grooming schedule, in my opinion. Personally, I love hair floating around the house and deshedding dogs🤪🤣.
2️⃣STIMULATION: Is this breed known for needing a lot of mental stimulation or being incredibly intelligent? Realistically, how much time can you commit each day to this?
3️⃣EXERCISE: if you are adopting a breed known for benefitting from physical exercise, can you commit time to this?
4️⃣INDEPENDENCE: Are you considering adopting a dog that is known for being a “Velcro dog?” If so, how often will this dog be left to their own devices at home? If the answer is more than a few consecutive hours, you might reconsider.
These are just a few factors that should be considered BEFORE choosing the pet for your household.
