Ever since my last dog passed away in December people have been asking me when I am going to get another dog. I am definitely not ready for another dog right now but who can resist looking at cute puppy pictures? For my own reasons I know I will get another purebred puppy from a good breeder (breeder versus rescue is a discussion for another day), but when I looked at Rottweilers I cannot think of anything but my last pup Xander. I feel it would be hard for me to have another puppy that looked so much like my last boy. I had never before thought of having a different breed but I have really been thinking about what characteristics I am looking for in my next dog. Here are some of the things I have been considering and that anyone looking for a new dog should think about:
- What activity level will fit well into your lifestyle?
- How many hours per day will your dog be spending alone?
- How much time will you have for training and socialization?
- Do you have kids, cats or other dogs that need to be taken into consideration?
- What size of dog will work best for your living situation?
- Will your dog have a job such as herding, guarding or helping around the house?
- Will you be interested in participating in any events such as obedience or agility?
- Do you want a dog that is like velcro or more aloof?
- Do you want a family dog or one that bonds well with one person?
- Overall, what role will the dog have in your household, a companion, a working dog or a family dog?
These are all important factors to consider. I am considering an English Shepherd, but am still open to ideas. Maybe by the time I am ready for a new dog I will decide to get another Rottweiler, but we will have to see. What is your favorite breed of dog and what is the main thing you consider when getting a new canine friend?
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