Recently I was asked: “What breed of dog should I choose for the cottage?”. I will not say that all 470 species that I have ever heard of fly in my thoughts. But this question made me think. Indeed, is there a breed that is ideal for a summer resident? What qualities should they have: a companion dog, service, hunting, decorative; large or small; for keeping in the house or on the street?
First, a few words about responsibility. The dog is alive. She wants to eat, walk, play, go to the toilet and, sometimes, engage in sabotage. Not out of malice, but because of a strong emotional pain for the owner who disappeared for a short time. Becoming the owner of a dog, there is not always an opportunity to play or take a walk later. It is necessary to think in advance whether it is possible to walk her regularly, vaccinate her systematically, and constantly monitor her health. And only if it is solved, you can move on to the next question: which breed to choose?
What are dogs.
- Large, medium and small.
- Long-haired, rough-haired, short-haired, naked.
- Shepherds, hunting, service, decorative, driving.
- Pedigreed, Metis and yard.
Many representatives of this breed have evolved over the centuries. They were selected in accordance with strictly specified parameters. A hunting dog had to hunt to find an animal, bring prey; a sledge – pull, walk in a team; work next to a person, guard, search and rescue; decorative delight with their presence — they are created to admire, and this is akin to cats. Accordingly, the character of the dog is formed. From harshness and to the vulnerable and emasculated.
I’ve been working with dogs for almost 30 years. Once I tried to count how many descriptions of dogs in the ring my hand made. It turned out less than three thousand. It was possible to compare, analyze and draw conclusions. I have seen cowardly Caucasian Shepherds, aggressive dachshunds and fearless Toy Terriers. Shaggy Shih Tzus and Pekingese, naked Chinese and Mexicans, smooth-haired Dobermans and boxers. A huge Irish wolfhound and a tiny chihuahua. There is no absolutely universal breed that would be suitable for all occasions. There is no breed in which there would not be aggressive, cowardly and vicious individuals. There are no breeds completely free of genetic diseases.
What tasks will your dog face and protect the territory, protect the family? Are you ready to work out with your pet on the training ground? Then pay attention to the German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Doberman, boxer, black terrier. Or exotic burgers and leonbergers. The Belgian Shepherd Malinois is very well trained.
Or do you want a fun companion friend who will also replace the doorbell? Do you get to the cottage by public transport, and does your pet travel with you? Do you want to take him on vacation with you? Then pay attention to dogs of medium breeds: toy Terrier, Chihuahua, French bulldog, miniature pinscher, miniature Schnauzer, Pomeranian, Papillon, Brussels Griffon.
Or maybe you will be attracted by a slow dog that does not like noise and fuss? Then look at the mastiffs.
Or really agile, ready to joyfully meet the owner and patiently lie on the sidelines while he is busy?
Are you ready to take care of your dog’s fur every day? Wash and comb, put it in order, choose thorns? Will it be difficult for you to clean upholstered furniture regularly? Then for you a Shih Tzu, an Afghan hound, a Yorkshire terrier, a collie, a sheltie, a pomeranian or a poodle. Poodles shed little, but require careful care, which is constantly growing and requires regular haircuts.
Decide where the dog will live. In the house, and then, at the end of the summer season, in the apartment? Or do you live in your house all year round and want to keep your dog outside? Then be sure to equip a booth that will protect the animal from the weather and will match its size. In the doghouse, the dog should be free to stand and lie stretched out at full length. Make a fence for walking. This will protect the garden from vandalism by a young dog. And your guests – from his excessive attention. And you will be calmer: the dog will not run away, will not find “adventures” in another area.
Any puppy is a lottery ticket. This is 50% of the qualities inherent in nature, and 50% is the work that the owner puts into his pet. What is the difference between purebred animals and dogs without noble roots (mongrels)? In the first place is the predictability of appearance: height, color, quality of wool and approximately character.
What will grow out of a cute lump born from a mongrel — no one can predict. If you don’t care about the breed, look for those who, by the will of fate, ended up in a shelter. Perhaps it is there that you will find a loyal and devoted friend.
Maybe thanks to the dog you will find another hobby for yourself.
You will become a regular at exhibitions, you will be fascinated by training, agility or dancing with a dog.
And how did you choose your pet?
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