Dogs

       Choosing a dog that suits you is not easy, because raising a dog may not just be your own matter. Whether your family accepts the dog and if their lifestyle conflicts with the dog are factors that will affect your choice. To make selection easier, we have summarized eight points to pay attention to.

       1. Purebred or mixed breed, which is better?

       Buyers can decide which type of dog to raise based on their preferences; however, it is important not to assume that purebreds are always better than mixed breeds. On the contrary, mixed breeds generally have better health than purebreds, are easier to care for, and have stronger disease resistance. Although their appearance may not be as perfect as purebreds, their loyalty to their owners will not change. For those who want to purchase purebred dogs, you need to learn some basic knowledge about dogs before buying. If you don't feel confident, you can seek help from friends familiar with dogs or related experts to assist in selection.

       2. Male or female dog, which is better?

       Male and female dogs each have their pros and cons. Generally, male dogs are more lively and active, less restrained, while female dogs tend to be quieter and easier to control. This is especially noticeable when walking the dog; male dogs often run off ignoring their owner's calls, while female dogs tend to obediently stay by their owner's side. In addition, unneutered male dogs like to mark territory, and during heat, the owner may find them harder to manage. Currently, female dogs are more popular among pet owners, but that does not mean female dogs come without troubles. Female dogs go into heat 2-3 times a year. When a female dog is in heat, the owner needs to clean their vaginal discharge in time and avoid other male dogs from taking advantage during walks. If the female dog becomes pregnant, the owner must take good care during the pregnancy and postpartum periods.

       3. Puppy or adult dog, which is better?

       Most owners wish to raise a dog from puppyhood because puppies are cute and easier to train. Many also believe raising a dog from a young age can deepen the relationship between the dog and owner. However, caring for puppies is very troublesome, and puppies have weaker constitutions and are prone to illness, while adult dogs do not have these problems. For adult dogs, it’s hard to change habits that are already formed; if they have bad habits, the owner might be troubled for a long time.

       4. Large dog or small dog, which is better?

       Large dogs require more space for activity and adequate exercise. Poorly trained large dogs can bring various troubles to the owner and others, so we recommend beginners not to raise large dogs. Small dogs don’t need much space, but many are noisy and restless, and some can be very loud. If you want a quiet dog, Chihuahuas or Poodles may not be suitable for you.

       5. Long-haired or short-haired dog, which is better?

       Yes, long-haired dogs are beautiful; they are elegant with smooth coats, but maintaining this requires the owner to invest a lot of effort, daily care is essential, and you must regularly “maintain” their coats. Families raising long-haired dogs will have lots of shed hair on sofas, carpets, even beds and clothes. Short-haired dogs shed less than long-haired ones, but can you resist the allure of a long-haired dog’s magnificent coat?

       6. What is the best season to buy a puppy?

       Generally, dogs go into heat twice a year, in spring and autumn. If you buy a puppy in autumn, you must ensure your home has heating facilities to help the puppy survive the cold winter. If you are a first-time dog owner, it is best to choose a puppy born in spring so you don’t have to worry much about the dog enduring the winter.

       7. How old should the puppy be when buying?

       Two-month-old puppies are best to bring home. Why? First, two-month-old puppies are weaned and able to live independently. Because they have received mother’s milk, their physical condition is good, which saves the owner many troubles. Second, two-month-old puppies enter the socialization phase, during which they are easiest to train.

       8. Owner’s age should also be considered when choosing a dog

       If you want a dog to accompany your child, be sure to avoid choosing a nervous dog, as they may harm the child. Dogs with gentle personalities, smaller size, and high obedience are the first choices. For young adults, you can choose any dog you like; your only concern is whether you have enough time to take care of the dog. For elderly people, like children, obedient and easy-to-train dogs are suitable, but the size restrictions are much looser than for children.