Choosing The Right Dog: Breed Selection And Adoption
As a veterinarian, one of the most common questions I’m asked by prospective dog owners is, “What breed should I get?” This seemingly simple question opens the door to a much broader and more important conversation—one that involves lifestyle compatibility, health considerations, and the choice between adopting a dog and purchasing one from a breeder.
First and foremost, selecting a dog breed should be about finding the right fit for your lifestyle. High-energy breeds like border collies or huskies thrive with active owners who can provide ample exercise and mental stimulation. On the other hand, lower-energy breeds like bulldogs or basset hounds may be better suited for quieter households. An older couple may have difficulty walking and caring for a giant breed dog, while couples with young children may want to shy away from teacup breeds that are easily injured with rough play. Considerations such as space (apartment vs. house), work schedules, allergies, and children in the home all play a role in finding a compatible breed. As a vet, I always recommend researching breed-specific behaviors and potential health issues. Some purebred dogs are prone to genetic conditions, so it’s essential to be prepared for possible medical costs down the road. For instance, French bulldogs and English bulldogs commonly have allergies that can require a daily coat care routine and expensive medications to manage. In contrast, mixed-breed dogs may have fewer health conditions due to lack of inbreeding. Before selecting a dog, an honest assessment of how much time, space, and financial resources you have should be done to make sure you get the right fit.
When it comes to acquiring a dog, you have two primary options: adopting from a shelter or rescue or purchasing from a breeder. Adoption has many benefits—it gives a dog in need a second chance and often includes initial medical care like vaccinations and spaying/neutering. Shelters house dogs of all ages, breeds, and sizes, and mixed-breed dogs tend to have fewer inherited health issues due to genetic diversity. However, shelter dogs are often put up for adoption by the original owners due to behavior problems, or they can develop behavior problems due to the shelter environment. When adopting from a shelter it is important to discuss the personality of the dog with shelter employees. Find out if the dog gets along well with other dogs, small animals, and children. Spend time with the potential adoptee to see how high its energy levels are, how they walk on a leash, and if it needs additional training. If you have other dogs in the home, see if the shelter will allow a meet and greet to make sure your potential adoptee is compatible with your established dog. When adopting, careful selection of the right dog and allowing time for your new furry companion to adjust to the new environment is important.
Purchasing from a responsible breeder is another option, particularly for those who need a specific temperament or skill set in a dog, such as service or hunting work. However, I urge potential buyers to research breeders carefully. Reputable breeders prioritize health, temperament, and proper socialization, and are transparent about genetic screening. Avoid puppy mills and breeders who cannot provide health histories or allow you to meet the puppy’s parents. The breeder should provide a health certificate signed by a veterinarian, which documents a physical exam, vaccinations, negative fecal, and deworming. When purchasing from a breeder, selecting a responsible breeder is just as important as selecting the breed of dog.
Ultimately, whether you choose to adopt or buy, your decision should prioritize the dog’s well-being and your ability to provide a stable, loving home. Dogs are not just pets—they are lifelong companions who deserve thoughtful, informed choices from their future families.
Established in 1981, Palm City Animal Medical Center is dedicated to providing the best possible care for your pets. With focuses on compassionate care in surgery, physical therapy and rehabilitation, preventative medicine, extensive diagnostics, and emergency service, Palm City Animal Medical Center combines exceptional medical care with a caring philosophy for pets and their owners. For more information, call (772) 283-0920, visit http://www.palmcityanimalmedicalcenter.com or find us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PalmCityAnimalClinic.
