Which Breed of Dog is Right For You?

With nearly 400 breeds of dogs currently recognized worldwide, the prospect of choosing a dog to bring into your home may be intimidating. But the decision is easier if you consider the needs of your particular household, and the ways in which your new dog will interact with you and other members of your family. Here are a few guidelines to help you narrow the search for your new puppy.

For homes with children

The right dog can become a fast friend to a young child, and learning to care for a dog can provide a valuable opportunity for a child to develop responsibility and maturity. But not all dogs mix well with children. The following breeds have been shown to have the even temper and patience often required for life with young children:

For city living, small apartments or less active lifestyles

No matter the size of your house or apartment, what really matters is the amount of time and exercise you're able to give your dog. If you can't get out often, or if your dog will spend a great deal of time indoors, you should look for a breed that requires less exercise and can adapt to a slower pace. The following breeds might be worth looking into:

For active lifestyles

Some breeds fit the bill better than others for active, energetic owners who want to spend a great deal of time playing with and exercising their pets. If you're looking for a friend to accompany you on hikes, runs, long walks on the beach or other activities, choose a breed that's up to the challenge. A few good bets:

For experienced handlers

If you're able to devote a great deal of time, attention and energy to raising your dog, you might be a good candidate for a breed that requires more attention, or experienced handling. The rewards of owning some of these breeds are great, but they may not be the best choice for busy, working families, homes with children or environments with limited space:

HEARTGARD is well tolerated. All dogs should be tested for heartworm infection before starting a preventive program. Following the use of HEARTGARD, digestive and neurological side effects have rarely been reported. For more information, contact your veterinarian or click on Product Information below.