Darren asks
Should I get a dog?Choosing a crossbreed or purebreed dog: what you need to know
With a purebreed or pedigree dog, you know what you’re getting, they’ll have a certain look and temperament. These traits are all down to the type of job they were bred to do. For example, many gundogs like Golden Retrievers are keen on picking up items and holding them in their mouth, pastoral breeds like the Border Collie, may enjoy chasing and bark lots if they’re feeling frustrated.
Some crossbreeds are really popular, like Cockerpoos and Labradoodles. Depending on the mix, crossbreeds can be a real mystery. This means it can be hard to predict how big they’ll get, what their coat will be like and their personality and behaviour traits when they get older.
If you’re considering a crossbreed, it’s worth doing your homework and look into all the breeds in the mix. It’s tricky to know which traits your pup will show, so expect the unexpected! Some crossbreds have a totally unique look and personality, which is all part of their charm.
Try not to be blinded by the dog’s looks, their behaviour and personality is what matters.
Ultimately, you are choosing your new family member who could be with you for up to 15 years. So do your research and make sure the breeder is responsible.
When visiting any litter of puppies, you could ask to meet their relatives to help give you an idea of how they will develop and what they will be like.
Health insurance is an important part of dog ownership and it’s worth doing some research before getting a dog. Insurance premiums are altered based on breeds and types and this may affect your original breed choice.
If you have a certain breed in mind, do your research into what health tests the parents need and make sure they suit your lifestyle.
Consider the type of home you have, is there space for exercise, are people home regularly to offer comfort and companionship? Make sure the whole family are on the same page.
Contact your local rehoming centre, they’ll know all about the different breed types and may just have the perfect match for you!
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