27/07/2025
Not my typical post, but here goes…
I firmly believe that there would be less (I say less, not zero) behavioral issues in dogs if the general public would research breeds before deciding to bring a dog into their home. FIRST- owning a dog is a privilege, it’s absolutely NOT a need. There’s nothing written that one must own a dog. That being said, if and when you do decide to bring a dog into your home, please consider the breed and breed traits (and health issues) before signing up for a very long life with an animal that completely depends on YOU for their every need.
If you’re an avid runner/adventurer, get a breed that suits that lifestyle. If you’re a homebody, or have a family with kids, and you’re dead set on owning a Labrador Retriever, talk to *ethical* breeders and get on a waiting list for a laid back/mellow puppy, not a field/working line dog. You want a big, floofy Great Pyrenees? Cool. Get a farm and livestock for that dog to thrive because living in your apartment or on 1/4 acre in an HOA neighborhood won’t satisfy that dog’s needs. Just brought home a Terrier? Awesome. Hope it has an outlet for everything it requires to be happy and fulfilled and you aren’t trying to make it your fur baby couch companion.
Additionally, you should have a plan in motion WELL before you bring a puppy or newly adopted dog home. Consider the expenses of not only purchasing the puppy/dog, but training should happen immediately when the dog arrives home, not wait until you are having issues, as well as vet bills, food, emergencies (I highly recommend looking into pet insurance for all things Veterinary care).
If you do adopt a dog that comes with behavior issues, seek out a trainer immediately. Don’t try to fix things yourself. Don’t expect the dog to just saunter into your home, climb up on the couch and just “learn to co exist peacefully” and “outgrow” behaviors. It doesn’t work line that. Stop taking the easy way out and really understand that YOU will need to make changes to YOUR life. There are no quick fixes.
Lastly, dogs aren’t emotional dumping grounds for humans. It’s not about YOUR needs, it’s about the dog.
