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Which Dog Breed is Right for You?
Selecting a pet compatible with your schedule is vitally important. Certain breeds require more time with their "pack," i.e., your family members. Which best describes your household's availability for your new dog?
Someone will always be home with our new dog.
Our dog will have several hours a day home alone.
Our dog will have to spend substantial time home alone.
Choosing a dog that is the right breed for your home is also important. What best describes your living space?
Small apartment or tiny home.
A mid-size home.
A large house.
A dog's bark can serve an important purpose, depending on your household needs. What are their barking habits when you think of the perfect dog for you?
They rarely bark and are generally quiet.
They are an occasional barker, generally only when there is a reason for them to bark.
They are generally vocal and would make enough noise to scare off an intruder and guard our home.
Outdoor space is important for many breeds, particularly those that need a lot of exercise. So what kind of yard will you have for your new furry friend?
No yard to speak of.
A large yard, either fenced or unfenced.
A vast outdoor space ready to be explored.
The right breed for you should have an energy level that matches your lifestyle. For lower-energy households, a high-energy dog can pose challenges; likewise, a low-energy dog may not have the stamina to keep up with a high-energy household. Which best describes your level of activity?
I'm not much into exercise, such as hiking. I love nothing more than relaxing on the couch and watching movies.
I enjoy strolling the neighborhood or going for hikes occasionally, but I also enjoy relaxing at home.
I hike or run regularly or want to increase my activity level substantially and would love to have an animal companion along for the activities.
Just like people, some dogs are most comfortable indoors, and others relish time in the outdoors. How much time do you spend outdoors?
I'm a total homebody. I generally prefer indoor activities.
I occasionally engage in outdoor activities like camping, swimming or trail hiking.
I'm an outdoors enthusiast and regularly enjoy long hikes, hunting and much more, and/or I would prefer a dog who mostly stays and sleeps outside.
Which of the following qualities would your perfect dog embody?
A dog who is gentle with humans big and small and welcomes visitors.
A dog who looks strong but is generally not reactive to humans or other dogs.
A protective dog who will help alert us if there is a threat to our home.
Dog hair is another important consideration when choosing a breed. While some breeds shed a high volume, others may not shed at all. This can be particularly important in households with individuals who may have pet allergies. How much shedding would your perfect dog do?
None.
Some, I recognize most dogs shed, and that's part of the deal.
The more fur, the better! Heavy shedding is okay by me.
Are there children in your household, or are you planning to start a family? Certain breeds may be more patient and gentler with young children, while others may not be a good choice for families with young children.
Yes, we have or will have young children in our household.
We have children in the home, but they are over 7, rarely have young children visit, and/or are not planning to grow our family.
We do not have any children or plans to start a family anytime soon.
Some dog breeds require more grooming or brushing than others. How much time and energy do you have to dedicate to caring for your dog's grooming needs?
Not much. I'd really like a dog that doesn't need much grooming or brushing.
I have time to brush or groom my dog at least once weekly.
I don't mind brushing and grooming my dog several days a week.
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(608) 668-6777
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984 12th Avenue South,
Onalaska, WI 54650
(608) 668-6777
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