Choosing a Dog Breed by Expected Behavior

For both owners and pets to be happy together, there will have to be the right mutual fit for both. Different dog breeds will have different qualities bred into them that will be deeply rooted into their behavior. For this reason, in most cases, it would be close to abusive to try to force these instinctive qualities out of their behavior. To be fair to both owner and pet, prospective dog owners should choose the breed that best fits their particular home and/or lifestyle environment. This will help ensure long term happiness for all concerned. A good example, a blue heeler cattle dog is trained to herd cattle by chasing and nipping at their feet. Although proper training could limit their activities to on command only, it would be almost torturous to throw him into a herding environment, but never allow him to do the work he was bred to do. Consequently, if you have livestock that you want protected without pestering, then you might consider another breed instead. For instance, a blue heeler has the desire to herd and control bred into his being, whereas the Pyrenees has a protection only instinct bred into his. Consequently, the Pyrenees does not chase and nip at the herd but merely patrols and hangs out ready to fend off any attackers that may come along. However, don't expect the Pyrenees to help you gather, control and herd the flock like a heeler would. In other words, a cattle rancher may need a dog to help with round up functions and another one may merely need a protector and patroller. Some more examples. A labrador retriever or other hunting dog makes for an adorable puppy but be ready to give it lots of exercise time or they might just drive you crazy. It's not their fault, they need that high energy to complete the hunting outings they were bred to do. A rat terrier is very independent, "hyper" and into everything possible. Once again, all part of the tenacious function they were bred for - to hunt, locate catch and kill rats. If you live in an apartment and your looking for a dog that won't bark much, you'll want to avoid the Pyrenees, not just because of their size but also because the barking is part of their protective instincts. However, you might look at a Basenji, a dog of African origin that does not bark at all. But, if you have cats and want them to be safe around your dogs, you might want to avoid a Basenji because they have been bred to hunt small game. So you see, each pure bred was created for a specific function innate to their special charge in life. And remember, just because a breed is popular or "hot" or the "must have" item of the day, doesn't mean that it will be the right fit for you and your family. First, you'll need to be realistic about your environment, be honest with yourself regarding how much time and attention you will be able to give your dog regarding grooming and exercise. Different breeds have different grooming and social needs. Second, know the requirements of your household - other pets, cats, noise, children, fencing, neighbor proximity, etc. - all of which will have an impact on the success of your decision on which dog breed to bring into your home. Next, study as much dog breed information as you can, eventually you'll find the match that is right for both you and your pets. And last, but not least, for your pets maximum happiness, let them be all that they were bred to be, and give them the opportunity to do so. You'll both have happier, more fulfilled lives in the long run.