‘Consider Whether You Are Planning On Travelling Or Having A Baby In The Future’: Vets Expose How To Choose The Perfect Dog Breed

Some owners who wrongly acquired their dogs during the pandemic are dumping them on the street right now. While those who adopted their dogs based on impulses are abandoning them, the same can't be said about those who took the time to choose the perfect dog breed.

In order to help prospective dog owners in their choices, two of Australia's top vets have revealed the clever way to choose the dog breed that will suit your home and lifestyle.

The latest advice comes from Dr Lisa Chimes and Dr Tim Montgomery.

Dr Lisa, an emergency and critical care vet at Small Animal Specialist Hospital in Sydney, explained that getting a dog is not a decision to be taken lightly and there are many factors that should be taken into consideration before choosing one.

“As a dog owner myself, I can tell you that dogs take up a lot of time and money. They will need daily - if not twice daily - walks, food, play time, grooming and trips to the vet,” Dr Lisa told FEMAIL.

“Dogs can cost up to $30,000 to feed and care for a pet over the course of their life - and this doesn't include any unforeseen emergency veterinary treatments.” 

Dr Lisa, who many may recognise from the TV show Bondi Vet, warned a dog should never be chosen “impulsively”.  

“It's a recipe for disaster, and is often the reason why so many dogs end up in shelters,” she said.

“Consider whether you are planning on travelling or having a baby in the near future. If so, you shouldn't get a dog.”

Dr. Tim, who is the Regional Clinical Director at Sydney Animal Hospitals, said while some breeds are suited to certain situations, it's important to remember not to profile or generalise dogs based on their breed. 

“We sometimes fall into the trap of saying things like, 'German Shepherds are loyal', or 'Golden Retrievers are friendly.'”

In reality, dogs are all individuals, just like us.

Dr. Tim went on: “Someone will often choose the breed based on dogs they knew as a child, however, it may be that your favourite breed is not a perfect match for you now as an adult.”

Continuing on to explain how to choose the perfect dog breed, the experts suggested that you should consider the following:

IF YOU LIVE IN A SMALL HOUSE OR APARTMENT

Both Dr Tim and Dr Lisa recommended rescuing a greyhound if you don't have much living space despite their size. 

“While they are racing dogs, this breed is actually quite lazy and does not need a lot of space as long as they are exercised daily, Dr Lisa explained.

“Greyhounds are the 'ultimate couch potato' who can 'quite comfortably sleep for 18 hours a day' even though they are the second-fastest land mammal in the world,” Dr. Tim agreed.

“Many small dogs need significantly more space than their larger cousins, and owners of some large dog breeds, such as bullmastiffs, will tell you that these dogs spend most of their time lazing about,” he added.

IF YOU HAVE YOUNG KIDS

“As long as the kids aren't too young and can understand instructions, I think this a great time to get a puppy,” Dr Lisa said. 

“Dogs that grow up with kids tend to be more comfortable around them and vice-versa. There is a long list of breeds suitable for young kids, especially when you have the dog from a puppy.”

Dr Tim said dogs and children are a “perfect storm” that can be as “wild and unpredictable” as each other so it's important to opt for breeds with calm temperaments. 

“Don't necessarily choose the puppy that first bounds over to you – look for the one who is being a bit more calm and patient in waiting for your cuddles,” he said.

IF YOU'RE PHYSICALLY ACTIVE WITH NO KIDS

“Working breeds such as Kelpies, Border Collies and Australian Shepherds are great for active people. They require a lot of exercise and training to ensure that they are happy and thriving,” Dr Lisa said. 

Dr Tim said many pure bred dogs can suffer from joint problems so it's important to be selective if you're choosing an exercise companion and warns against brachycephalic or short snouted pooches like English Bulldogs, Pugs, and French Bulldogs as their face shape means they usually struggle with lots of physical activity.

“Also remember that active lifestyles mean a few more injuries, which is one of the many reasons why all dog owners should have pet insurance,” he added.

IF YOU ARE A RETIREE

Dr Tim said he has seen many older couples in his consult room who are looking to slow down in life but have taken on a small, high-energy dog that needs lots of exercise.

“From what I've seen in vet clinics, retirees often choose to get small dogs like Jack Russells who they see fitting into their new phase of life,” Dr Tim said. 

“In reality, small terriers like Jack Russells lead fast-paced lives and want lots of stimulation, meaning they may not be a great fit.”

“As I said before, consider a rescue Greyhound!”

IF YOU'VE NEVER HAD A DOG BEFORE

Dr Lisa said any breed can work for first-time dog owners as long as they are able to commit to the time, money and emotions of bringing a pup into their home and make sure to invest in a good dog trainer. 

“Many first-time dog owners reach for a classic breed, such as German Shepherds, without realising just how much work is often required to train and keep them stimulated,” Dr Tim added. 

He recommended people speak to a vet before they make their choice of breed so they can advise on what may be the best fit for their lifestyle. 

IF YOU'RE AN EMPTY NESTER OR HAVE TEENAGE KIDS

Parents with older kids looking to get a dog for the family need to take in account how prepared their teenagers will be to care for the new pet, Dr Tim said. 

“I can't tell you how many times I speak to parents in a consult room who never truly intended to be the sole carer of their dog, but the duty has fallen to them now their teenage kids have either moved out or are too socially active to look after the family pet,” he said. 

“Think ahead – will you be happy to take care of your dog when your children move out?”

IF YOU'RE AFTER A LOW-MAINTENANCE DOG

Dr Lisa said all dogs need attention, environmental enrichment and regular training and both she and Dr Tim recommended getting a cat if you're after a pet that's more independent.

“Have you considered a cat? Jokes aside, cats are self-sufficient, self-cleaning pets that will love and support you while also being comfortable in their own company,” Dr Tim said.

“I also want to give one more plug for rescue Greyhounds - have you guessed they're my favourite? There are lots of them needing homes, and they ask for little more than a couch and a cuddle to be happy.”

SIX QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF BEFORE ADOPTING A DOG, ACCORDING TO EXPERT

Below, Dr. Lisa has given answers to the six important question you should ask yourself before adopting a dog

Do you want a puppy?

This means that you will have to deal with six-12 months of toilet training, chewing and mischievous puppy behaviour, which can be challenging. But you'll hopefully have the dog in your life for 10-15 years, depending on its breed.

Would you prefer an older dog?

While old age is not a disease, older dogs can be prone to certain health conditions. Some people may choose an older dog as it suits their quieter lifestyle.

Are allergies an issue in your household?

Some people are allergic to dog saliva, while others can have allergies to fur. If this is the case, you may want to choose a low-shedding dog.

What is your home like? Is it an apartment or house? Is your fencing secure?

Dogs are social animals and should not be kept outdoors only. If you are planning to get a dog and not allow it inside, then perhaps you should reconsider getting one at all.

What is your lifestyle like? Do you want an active dog you can run with? Or would you prefer a dog with less demanding exercise requirements? 

Keep in mind that all dogs need daily exercise, but some will need a lot more than others.

What kind of work schedule do you have?

If the dog will be left alone for long periods of time, you may need to look at things like doggy day care or dog walking services to keep them occupied. Having two dogs might also be a good option as they can keep each other company.