Adult Dogs -the Breed or the Temperament

You sometimes think it is all in the breed of  the dog you want but have you considered understanding a dog's temperament that will determine how much training he may need? If time is of the essence where there is not enough on your part, don't have the interest or the knowledge to work with the dog who is poorly socialized, suffering from separation anxiety, does not get along with children, nervous or exciteable then it won't be fair to the dog or you- if you take him home. Leave this dog to be adopted by someone who does have the time to take all of this into consideration and give this dog a chance by proper training and attention he will need. You are better to pick a dog who is more suitable to your environment and living standards.

Tips to consider to help determine a dog's temperament:

1. Sociability-If you want the dog to be your best friend, a main part of your family then choose a dog who loves people. Spend time with the dog in a private quiet area then you will find out if the dog is a people person. The dog will want your attention by approaching you with tail waggining, licking or nudging you for that attention. Your child should also be considered at this time to see if he approaches your child in a friendly manner which indicates he tolerant to children then that is what you want especially if children will be involved.

2. Tolerance to Physical Attention- This is determined by how much contact a dog will tolerate by petting him constantly -about a dozen times. If he leans in for more or does he start to pull away.

3. Test the Dog's Excitability- Jump around and make noise to see how excited the dog gets,how long, if he does get excited, it takes him to calm down and if he jumps on you. Take notice how long a time it takes him to settle down this may mean he requires extra attention, an owner with some patience. He may become aggressive or predatory then he may require a home whre he can receive special training. He may get excited, playful but at the same time calms down quickly then that indicates he could be an excellent choice for a family with young children.

4. Determine if Dog Suffers from Separation Anxiety- Try leaving the dog alone for a few minutes and when you return take note of his behavior. Does the dog seemed stressed or out of breath then he may suffer from separation anxiety which would require addtional training and attention.

5. Check the Dog's Response to New Situations- Try taking the dog for a walk and observe how he reacts to noise, traffic and strangers. Does he appear frightened, curious, chase moving objects or remain calm and take everything in his stride. Dogs that are frightful of new situations often need socialization, training and in some cases medication to remain calm. Dogs that chase cars, bicycles, cats are a danger to themselves and in some cases to others causing them to get killed in traffic or injure small animals. These type of dogs will require special trianing, secure fencing, leashes and collars.

Remember a lot is involved with adopting a dog and it is not just the breed but the dog himself.

author: N.Crozier owner of http://www.heavenpeturns.com - Visit us and find a quality pet cremation memorial urn that not only shows your love and respect for your pet dog, cat, bird, rabbit any family pet you may have but what they deserve. We wouldn't settle for anything less so why should you.