Use these owner profiles to help you choose your ideal dog. Read each set of questions to find which profile best describes you, then read on to see which type of dog suits you best.
Which is the right dog for you?
CITY SLICKER
1. Do you live in an apartment in the city?
2. Do you want a dog as a companion?
3. Do you love sitting down with your dog on your knee?
4. Is your favourite pastime grooming and playing with your dog?
Your ideal dog is something small, cuddly and with a low exercise requirement. A Chihuahua is ideal if you are single and want a real lap dog (but don’t over-pamper). If you have children, check out the Bichon Frise – especially if you love grooming. Other dogs to look at include Dachshunds, Fomeranians and Pekingese
FAMILY FRIEND
1. Do you have a large garden?
2. Do you want a dog to help you keep fit?
3. Do you want a real family pet?
4. Do you want a dog that is big on character, rather than size?
Your ideal dog is something in the terrier or gun dog category. Terriers are smaller, active, fun dogs but should be supervised around children. Labradors and Golden Retrievers are popular family pets, as they are generally very good with children. These dogs need regular daily walks to keep them fit and happy.
GENTLE GIANT
1. Do you live in the countryside in a large house?
2. Do you want to feel safe when you’re out walking?
3. Do you want a dog to deter burglars?
4. Do you prefer big, handsome dogs rather than cute, fluffy dogs?
Your ideal dog is one of the bigger breeds such as a Great Dane. They do need a lot of exercise and training but make good family pets, although because of their size they should be supervised around children (as should other very large breeds). Other hreeds that might be happy with you include the German Shepherd or, if you have a huge house, and garden, one of the giant breeds such as Irish Wolfhound, Mastiff or Newfoundland.
GAME BOY
1. Are you a very active person?
2. Do you want a dog to help you meet other owners?
3. Are you far too busy to worry about a clean house?
4. Are you very competitive and do you love challenges?
Your ideal dog is a working dog such as a Border Collie, which will be very happy living with you. These dogs need to work and love challenges, so you could both enjoy agility, flyball or heel work to music as a new hobby and a way of meeting people. Other dogs to consider include the Basset Hound or Old English Sheepdog.