When choosing a pet, it is important to consider not only its appearance but also the character and behavior of the dog. This determines your compatibility and level of happiness.
Each dog breed has unique characteristics that distinguish it from others, including size, temperament, and activity level. Before you go looking for a puppy, you should ask yourself a few questions:
What size dog do you want to have?
What lifestyle does your family lead? The answer to this question will help you understand whether active breeds like Border Collies or calmer ones like Basset Hounds are suitable for you.
What age of dog do you prefer: a puppy or an adult?
How important is pedigree to you? Do you plan to participate in dog shows?
How much space do you have for a dog in your home? Large breeds with long tails require more space. In moments of joy, a dog may wag its tail vigorously, knocking over everything in its path if your apartment is small. If you have always dreamed of a German Shepherd but your home lacks space, a more compact breed like a Corgi might be suitable for you.
What temperament do you prefer: sociable, independent, obedient, or other?
How to Choose the Right Dog: Simple Tests
Once you have answered these questions and arrived to see dogs, for example, at a kennel or a foster home, it is important to remember a few simple tests that will help assess the puppy's temperament and understand how well you match each other.
Test 1: Observation
First, observe the puppy's behavior for about 30 minutes. This will give you a chance to get to know the dog better.
Active puppies engage in group play.
Neutral puppies may leave the group and do their own thing.
Passive puppies are more likely to stay on the sidelines.
Test 2: Play
If possible, take the puppy aside and play with it. If allowed, offer the puppy a treat or a toy. Pay attention to its reaction to you and what you are offering.
An active puppy will rush to you, showing energy and demand.
A neutral puppy will behave more calmly.
A passive puppy may show anxiety but will allow you to pet it or run to other puppies.
Test 3: Rocking
Gently rock the puppy in your arms:
An active puppy will squirm and won't be able to stay still.
A neutral puppy will likely move a bit and then relax.
A passive puppy will probably calm down immediately and lie in your arms.
Test 4: Lean Down
Approach the puppy and lean down to pet it.
An active puppy will likely jump to your face.
A neutral puppy will relax and let you pet it.
A passive puppy may shrink back in confusion.
Test 5: Fall
Stand up and wait until the puppy loses interest in you. Then suddenly fall to the ground and exclaim, “Ouch!” Observe the puppy's reaction.
An active puppy will run over and start jumping on you.
A neutral puppy will come to sniff or lick your face.
A passive puppy will likely shrink back and run away in fear.
All these tests together will help assess the puppy's psychology and understand how well it matches your character. Of course, this should not be a decisive factor in choosing a dog, but such tests will provide you with more information to consider.
