By Mary Jane Anderson

The winter months can be an ideal time to think about a dog you might be considering buying in the spring. Spring is the best time to have a puppy, so now is the time to look for a dog that would be right for you.

The dog has always been considered man’s best friend. But turning the saying around, are you the dog’s best friend? The consideration is why you want to own a dog. Do you want a dog for companionship, protection, outdoor activities, or a combination of all these traits?

A perspective dog owner has an obligation to choose the dog that is most likely to be compatible with the owner’s lifestyle. Buying a dog should never be an emotional decision. The characteristics of a breed should match his owner’s individual personality along with the limitation of the owner’s lifestyle. If the dog is for a family with children, the age of the children must be considered since large dogs can be great with children but many accidentally knock over small children in his excitement in greeting the family. Some small dogs may be too fragile for children and cannot be picked up, hugged, or given rough handling. A sturdy, medium-sized dog might be suitable for children.

The dog’s size and breed is an important factor in exercise. All dogs, large or small, need directed exercise on a daily basis. Dogs cannot be let outside to run in the neighborhood, otherwise there will be many problems. Some dogs need less exercise than other breeds; owners just decides how much activity they want to spend outside each day with their dog. If a dog, requiring extensive exercise, is left alone all day without adequate exercise, he can become depressed, lonely, and bored, which leads to destructive behavior.

Another factor you must consider is that certain breeds have a tendency to inherit medical problems, such as hip dysphasia and problems with the eyes, ears, and deafness. An important question also is who will train the puppy in housebreaking, leash training, good manners, establishing rules, discipline, and playtime?

The first place to go to explore the world of dogs is at the library. There you can become acquainted with all kinds of dogs. Dogs come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, sizes, and temperament. Carefully selecting the best dog for you will ensure compatibility and a lasting relationship. A dog’s temperament is just as important as a dog’s physical characteristics, since the temperament decides the relationship between you and your dog.

Purebred dogs are divided into seven groups according to their abilities to perform a service to man. At the library, you can see the dogs and information of the dog you would like to own. The second stop is to go to breeders of the dog you are interested in buying and see the breed and talk to the breeders. Choosing the right dog for you takes a great deal of thought, but taking the time will start you on your way to many years of a happy and rewarding companionship with your dog.

And there are also many wonderful mixed-breed dogs that are looking for a home. Many families have been unable to care for their pets during hard financial times. The dogs would greatly appreciate a new home with a loving family.

So, be wise when you decide that you want a dog; whether it is for a couple, a family with children, or a single person. With a thought-out decision, you will have years of an enjoyable relationship with your dog.