The first dog - which dog breed is best?

The decision to get a dog is big and exciting - and once that decision is made, the next one comes: which breed to choose? There are hundreds of dog breeds to choose from, and each breed has its own unique characteristics and needs. To help you in your choice, we have compiled a list of factors to consider!

The choice of dog breed should be based on your lifestyle, your interests and what you can offer the dog. Don't choose a breed just because it's cute - take the time to read about different dog breeds and their characteristics and needs. Talk to breeders and other dog owners of the breed for insight and advice, and maybe even meet a few dogs of the breed you're interested in to get a feel for whether it might suit you. The more you know about the breed, the better you can make an informed decision. Below are some factors that are good to think about:

• Size

• Activity & lifestyle

• Personality

• Health

Large or small dog breed?

The choice between large or small breed depends a lot on your own preferences, but it can be good to think through what advantages or disadvantages there are. A larger dog obviously requires more space and food. All dogs, regardless of size, must be trained to be around other dogs and people in a safe and harmonious way, but a larger breed can place higher demands on you as a dog owner to be able to handle. To a large extent, it is your lifestyle that determines whether you should choose a large or small dog breed. Do you want a small dog that can easily fit in a bag when you go by train? Or a larger dog that can be trained to run alongside the bike or pull you in the ski trail?

Do you have an active life or are you suited to a quieter breed of dog?

Your own activity level and what you want to do with your dog is an important factor to take into account. If you are an active person who likes to run, hike and spend a lot of time outdoors, a more demanding breed may be suitable. If you would rather have a dog that can calmly lounge around in a café and is happy with a slower every-day-life, a calmer breed is a better choice. However, remember that both small and large breeds, and active and "calm" dogs benefit from exercise, and regardless of which breed you get, you must be prepared to give the dog proper exercise and activation.

The dog not only needs to be activated physically but also mentally through, for example, obedience training, search exercises or other activities. Dogs need to use both their body, nose and brain, and some breeds need this more than others. Breeds that have been bred specifically for searching, hunting, herding or other types of work have a great need to do just that.

It can be good to think about what life you can offer the dog, and not the other way around, and choose a breed based on the needs of the dog you will be able to satisfy. Do you want to attend courses and maybe practice obedience, nosework, or some other activity? Do you want to take the dog out on daily runs or are you content with a forest walk on the weekend?

Time and money for good health and care

Also review your finances and budget. It is not only the dog itself that costs money, but also feed, insurance and veterinary care. Once you've become interested in a particular breed, read up on the breed's health situation and review what insurance costs for that breed. Breeds that are more often affected by various injuries or diseases are more expensive to insure. To increase the chance of having a healthy and well-being dog, choose a healthy breed from a reputable breeder who breeds from healthy parents. You must also be prepared that even if the dog is insured, you need to have the time and money to give the dog the care it needs, both in terms of grooming, dental care and other care.

Personality

Many dog ​​owners match - consciously or unconsciously - the choice of the dog's personality and mentality with their own, and it comes down to preference. It might be good to think carefully; who are you and what do you look for in a dog? Do you want a social dog that loves everyone and wants to accompany you in all social contexts? Or would you rather have a dog that turns to you, but is more disinterested in others? Are you a determined and self-confident person and want a dog that also has high integrity and self-confidence? Or do you want a really close collaboration with your dog and prefer a "softer" breed that wants to please?

In conclusion, choosing the right dog breed is a personal process that should be based on your lifestyle and what you can offer the dog you get. Take the time to read about different breeds and think carefully before taking the big step. With the right breed choice, you will get the dog that fits perfectly with your life and your personality, to the great joy of both doggy and owner!