Have you thought about getting a dog for your family? Is it still just a thought in your mind, or have you discussed it openly? Perhaps you’ve already made a trip to the shelter but haven’t found the dog you’re looking for yet.
Stop! You’ve already made your first mistake.
So many people have a breed already picked out that they are interested in. These days huskies seem to be super popular, as well as German shepherds. The mistake you are making?
You are picking out a breed that you want PROBABLY based on the dog’s looks. You see that breed on movies, or your friend might have one, and they just LOOK cool….or cute…or cuddly. Don’t deny it. I know what you’re thinking…because I used to be in your shoes.
Instead of deciding on what kind of dog you want based on their looks…change your perspective. What kind of dog is going to be good for YOUR family?
Are you active? Do you travel? Do you work full-time? How much time and energy do you want to dedicate towards training? Who’s going to be responsible for the dog?….let me ask that last question again. Who is REALLY going to be responsible for the dog?
I run across people owning German Shepherds who live in apartments. Or people who have a husky because they wanted an emotional support dog. Think about what I do for a living. If I’m in your home, it’s not because everything is hunky dory.
And while there are people who can appropriately take care of German shepherds in apartments…and have huskies for an emotional support animal…they are FEW and far between. The exception more than the rule.
So…when you are going to make that big leap and get a dog, remember this.
Your dog is going to be a guest in your home for 12 years. What kind of guest do you want? A guest that parties all the time and you have to lay down strict rules and structure in order to exist together? Or a best friend that has your same standards, and loves to do the same things you do?
Take a moment…do some research. Decide what’s best for your family.
Skip the rowdy trouble-making guest…and spend 12 years with your new best friend!
More Tips
Check out our other posts
Protective or Possessive? The Truth About Dogs That Guard Their Owners
Is your dog truly protecting you, or are they acting out of fear and possessiveness?
Many owners mistake controlling behaviors for loyalty, but allowing your dog to make decisions about who can approach you can lead to stress, anxiety, and even aggression. In this guide, you’ll learn how to recognize the difference between protective and possessive behavior, why teaching trust is the key to a calm and confident dog, and the training techniques that create lasting results.
Whether you’re searching for expert dog training in Utah County or Salt Lake City, Utah, these practical tips will help you build a safer, happier relationship with your dog.
Mental Fatigue vs. Physical Fatigue in Dogs: The Key to Better Behavior
Have you ever taken your dog on a long walk only to come home and watch them race around the house with endless energy?
You’re not alone. Many dog owners focus on physical exercise to tire out their dogs, but mental stimulation is often the missing piece. In this article, you’ll learn the difference between mental and physical fatigue in dogs, why activities like training, sniffing, and problem-solving can be just as exhausting as a long walk, and how balancing both types of exercise can reduce unwanted behaviors like pulling on the leash, jumping, barking, and destructive chewing.
Whether you have a playful puppy or an energetic adult dog, these simple strategies will help you raise a calmer, happier, and more well-behaved companion.
Is Your Dog Too Trained? Why Constant Commands Can Backfire
Most dog owners think more training leads to better behavior—but that’s not always true.
If your dog only listens when you’re giving commands, they may be relying on you instead of learning self-control.
Discover how overtraining can create dependence, why constant correction often backfires, and how teaching your dog to make good decisions leads to calmer, more reliable behavior at home and in the real world.
The Surprising Reason Your Dog Mirrors Your Emotions
Ever wonder why your dog seems to get more excited, anxious, or reactive when you’re stressed?
Dogs are experts at reading human emotions, and your body language, tone of voice, and energy can directly influence their behavior.
Discover why calm humans create calm dogs and learn simple training habits that lead to less pulling, less barking, and a more confident, well-behaved companion.