There are many things to consider when bringing a dog or cat into your home. Do you want a playful dog that will be able to go jogging with you or would you prefer a more laid back cat that can be left alone for long periods of time? Here is a quick checklist to help you figure it out.
*Keep in mind that while general breed characteristics is may be good for some traits each dog and cat is unique.
House and Home
Do you live in a single family home or an apartment? Are there small children in the home? Consider the amount of space available for a pet to run around inside and outside. Smaller dogs may be a better choice in smaller spaces although larger dogs, such as Rottweilers, will be fine in smaller living spaces as long as they are given lots of exercise. An outdoor cat will be better suited for life in the suburbs than in the city.
Lifestyle – Active vs. Laid back
Some dogs love running along side of you at the park. Other dogs, not as much. Smaller dogs may not physically be able to keep up with you. Consider if you would prefer running with your dog or pushing him in a stroller.
If you are always busy at work or driving around town, consider a pet that can be left alone for long periods of time. Some breeds are more independent than others and actually prefer to be left alone.
Climate – Cold Winters vs. Deserts
If you live in a typically cold climate, make sure to find a dog or cat that can handle the cold temperatures. Husky’s and Saint Bernards are much more adapt to cold temperatures than Whippets and Miniature Pinchers. The opposite is true for warm and desert climates where shorthaired pets are much more comfortable than fluffy ones.
Grooming and Allergies
Shorthaired animals, in general, shed less than those with longer fur. If you do not want to spend a great deal of time or money on grooming, do not get a poodle, Lhasa Apso, or other dog with long hair.
Temperament and Mood
Cats and dogs that will be living with and around children or other animals need to be friendly and not aggressive. However, if you are looking for a guard dog, they do need to be able to be a little aggressive.
Maintenance and Cost
In general, larger dogs and purebreds have more health problems than other pets. For example, Rottweilers almost always get arthritis as they grow older due to their dense muscle mass.
ASPCA’s Meet Your Match Program
The ASPCA has come up with a program they call the “Meet Your Match” pet personality test. The goal is to help pet owners find a pet that will match their personality and needs. For example, according to the ASPCA website, “Dogs are tested on their friendliness, playfulness, energy level, motivation and drive, and placed into one of nine color-coded Canine- or Puppy-alities.”
“Each adoptable cat is assessed based on level of interest in play, exploring, ‘talking,’ and being the center of attention so that he or she can be placed into one of the nine color-coded Feline-ality types.”
Matching pet and human personality types is a great way of helping to ensure the right pet is placed in the right home and will not end up in a shelter.
If you are thinking about adopting a dog, try this basic quiz to see what breeds it suggests for you based on your living conditions and preferences: Dog Breed Info Center Search.
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About the author:
Kayleigh has always loved animals and has spent time volunteering at the local dog shelter. The love of her life is her four year old Rottweiler, Lizzie. She enjoys writing for YeePet.com since it combines her love of animals with one of her favor...
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