Does breed matter when adopting a dog?
If you are looking to adopt a dog you might be googling “best family dog” and find pages and pages of different recommendations from Labradors to Collies.
You might find traits such as “affectionate” or “loyal” come up, but is there more to choosing a dog than how they are with immediate household members?
When it comes to rescue dogs from Spain, generally speaking, we are not talking about any pedigree dogs. Many dogs are found on the street and will be a mix of different breeds.
Both of my Spanish rescue dogs are mixed breed. One is clearly a Spanish Mastin, the other, we have no idea. He has big hound ears, but aside from that, we really can’t tell which breeds he is mixed with.
In this blog post we will go over some points to review before applying to adopt a dog.
Your lifestyle
Each dog comes with its own set of characteristics, energy levels, and needs.
Are you an active person or prefer to stay at home during the weekends?
Do you work away from home through the day?
Do you live in a flat with stairs or a house with a secure garden?
Knowing the answers to these questions will help you make an informed decision on your suitability to adopt a dog.
Temperament
Some breeds are known for their affectionate nature, while others may be more independent.
German Shepherds are known to be intelligent, loyal and protective. Cocker Spaniels are known to be lively, playful and friendly.
The shelter can tell us the temperament of the dogs in their care, this is based on the dog being assessed in the shelter environment.
Physical Exercise
Dogs, much like humans, vary in their energy levels and exercise needs. Researching different breeds can allow you to identify the physical activity requirements that come with each.
Some breeds, such as Border Collies or Labrador Retrievers, are known for their high energy levels and thrive with regular exercise. On the other hand, smaller or more laid-back breeds may be content with shorter walks.
By understanding these differences, you can ensure that your dog's exercise needs align with your ability to provide them with the right amount of physical activity.
Mental Stimulation
Dogs also need mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Certain breeds, like the Border Collie or the Australian Shepherd, are highly intelligent and require regular mental challenges to prevent boredom. Without sufficient mental stimulation, dogs may develop destructive behaviours. On the flip side, some breeds may be less demanding in this regard.
Researching breeds can help you gauge the mental stimulation needs of different dogs, ensuring that you can provide activities such as training sessions, and interactive play to keep your dog’s mind engaged.
Health Considerations
Different breeds have varying predispositions to certain health issues. By looking into different breeds, you can become aware of potential health concerns and be better prepared for the responsibilities that come with them. This knowledge can allow you to provide the necessary care, both preventive and reactive, to keep your dog happy and healthy throughout their life.
Does breed matter?
The answer to that will depend on the answer to many of the questions above, what experience you have with dogs and your willingness to learn. Adopting a dog is a commitment to the wellbeing of the dog for their lifetime, is that a commitment you can give to rescue a dog? Only you can answer that question.
