How to Choose the Breed of Dog With the Temperament Most Suitable for Your Needs

How to choose the breed of dog with the most suitable temperament for your needs.

How to choose the breed of dog with the temperament most suitable for your needs

by Dennis Fisher

Different breeds of dogs vary considerably in temperament.

In deciding which breed would be most suitable for your needs and for the needs of your family, the distinctive temperament of the breed should be an important factor in your choice.

Obviously you cannot ignore practical considerations such as the size of your garden and the facilities you have for the dog to exercise. Some breeds of dogs obviously require more exercise than others. But do not ignore the natural, distinctive temperament of the breed you have chosen.

In order to make the task of choosing the breed of dog that best suits your needs a little easier, I have listed below the eight most popular dogs � according to A.K.C. registration figures � and given brief details about their temperaments.

The following list is in current order of popularity.

1. Labrador Retriever.

Then Labrador is a medium sized dog of about 22 inches in height with very expressive eyes. An important reason for it�s popularity to the fact that it is generally an even-tempered, friendlyanimal that is particularly good with children.

There are Labradors who have been trained to be quite effective guard dogs, but this is nota natural characteristic of the breed. But if is a lovable,friendly, affectionate, easy to manage and easy to train pet is what you require the Labrador is an excellent choice. Labradors are, quite understandably, the breed of choice with many eye-dog organizations.

A Labrador can be asomewhat greedy dog and there is a tendency for the dog to put on too much weight if the diet is not controlled.

2. Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is a fairly large, friendly animal, standing about 24 inches at the shoulder and weighing approximately 80 lbs.

This is a highly intelligent, very lively, active breed. It has a delightful temperament, friendly and affectionate and is very fond of children.

The Golden Retriever is very quick to learn and responds very well indeed to training.

It must be mentioned however, that the Golden Retriever is not a natural guard dog. It is a breed that appears to have no inherited protective, guard instinct. It is possible this can be instilled with correct training but it is not a natural trait of the breed.

3. Yorkshire Terrier.

This handsome little terrier, with a beautiful silky coat, although only about 7 lbs. in weight,is reputed to be one of the most courageous small dogs willing to tackle anything.

It is highly intelligent, friendly and lovable and can fit in easily in a very small home or apartment. It does not require a great deal of exercise.