Choosing the right dog is crucial to a successful partnership between dog and owner. Good solid research of a breed will quickly show if it is right for you and your personal circumstances. Get it wrong and you are heading for trouble with a capital 'T' from the start and who gets the blame? The dog of course. A bored dog is usually a destructive dog. You need to consider the exercise needs, mental agility and size of the dog and see if you are a match for it. Many dogs that are mis-matched end up being rehomed or in Rescue Centres due to the dog owner not being able to cope.

Do you want a puppy or an adult dog. Ask yourself 'Can I cope with a puppy in the home?' It needs a lot of attention and is likened to having a new baby to look after. A mature dog needs to adapt to you and your way of life but will probably be house trained and may have undergone some basic training already.

Ask yourself a few simple questions to ascertain what type of dog is right for you.

0. Do I want a puppy or a mature dog?
0. How much time do I have to walk my dog each day? Be realistic. Breeds vary enormously in the amount of exercise needed.
0. How long will the dog be left on its own while I am at work? Again, some breeds need more company and attention than others.
0. Do I have any experience of owning a dog? If not, do not choose a demanding or strong willed breed of dog.
0. Do I want a male or female dog? Some people believe that bitches are more faithful and affectionate, but male dogs have more character!
0. Do I want a long or short haired dog ? (See Grooming page)
0. Where do I live? Where will I exercise my dog? Local park or open fields?
0. What type of accomodation do I have? A large dog can take up an awful lot of room.
0. Where will my dog sleep and how much room do I have for its bed?