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What You Should Know About DogsDo you like dogs? Many people do. If you are contemplating getting your first dog, there are many basic things that you need to learn first, followed by some of the finer points, about dog ownership.
Some Basic Information About Dogs
Dogs are predatory animals because they are descendants of wolves (Canis Lupus). If you like to hurt animals smaller than yourself, it is advised that you not consider getting a large breed dog. Rotteilers and Mastiffs are big, strong dogs that can knock you to the ground and pin you there even if they don't mean any harm. You might consider a Chihuahua. They are very small dogs and you might find it entertaining to have one shredding your fingers.
There are breeds of dogs the like to engage playfully with humans while others do not. Bulldogs and Siberian Huskies are good examples of this. The Bulldog is playfully patronizing while the Siberian Husky is energetic but decidedly unsubservient. It is a good idea to get a dog that fits well into your home life. If you are ready for a smoochy dog, the Bulldog, with its sour-puss face, will fit very well. Outdoorsmen will do well to choose such high energy breeds as the Mastiff and terriers. If you like to jog, a husky can provide good motivation, just be sure the dog is well lease trained.
Even though most dogs can be trained to tolerate the ear pulling and piggyback riding of children, it is best to choose a breed that is naturally more tolerant of these things and train them to be even more so. A good example of such a breed is the St. Bernard.
If one of the things a dog is expected to tolerate is being treated like a doll by a child, it is best to choose a dog that is very playful, tolerant and small. Even though St. Bernards are very gentle, they do have large jaws and are stronger than they may realize. So, for parents considering getting a dog for their child, it is best to select one of the sturdier small breeds that are small enough to carry around and be dressed up in doll clothes. These dogs are small enough to control easier if they should be provoked.
Some dog breeds are not suited to be guard dogs. Huskies are too friendly for guard duty. If a trespasser came on your property, the husky would greet them with a wagging tail and request for attention, even though they do resemble wolves.
There are also dog breeds that need strong, experienced handlers because, under certain conditions, they have been known to maim, subdue and even kill people. Rottweilers and Irish Wolfhounds are among such breeds that need strong handling.
In conclusion, choosing a dog should not be down casually. You need to consider the reason for having the dog and choose a breed that fits that purpose. Everyone in the family should be able to handle the dog. There are many things that need to be learned about dogs and the different breeds, as well as how to take care of one once you have brought him home. |
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