Dogs have always been an important part of our lives but probably never more so than during the last year of isolation and lockdown. Many of us are venturing into pet ownership for the first time or perhaps you have lost a beloved companion and you are looking to find a new friend and companion. Whatever your situation, the key thing is to make the right choice when welcoming a new four-legged friend into the home.
Whether a rescue dog or a puppy, making sure you choose the right breed, personality and temperament is key to a long and wonderful friendship. If you are an active person or family then an energetic playful dog might be just the right choice for you. However, if you are an older dog owner, or someone who is more homebound having a bouncy springer spaniel puppy just isn’t going to work for you. So be wise, take advice, read about different breeds and buy or rescue from a reputable and trusted breeder or dog rescue charity.
A dog’s temperament is indicative of its general attitude to people and other animals. How strong is their prey drive? Are they very protective? What is their level of aggression or friendliness? Size is also important. Don’t choose an Irish Wolfhound if you live in a high rise city flat – common sense is not always common! Dogs have a wide spectrum of personality traits and temperament types – some are shy and timid, others playful and easily excitable. Some are submissive and others are alpha dogs and nee to be leader of the pack.
Breed, genetics and environment all play a part but environment is probably the most important. Living conditions can foster good or bad habits. How much time does your dog spend with you? In isolation? Outdoors? All these factors contibute to the temperament your dog is likely to develop. In general, dogs that spend a lot of time in the company of people and other animals are more sociable and less aggressive.
Dogs can respond with aggression if they feel threatened which can be a trait in rescue dogs who may have been abused or neglected or have possibly lived as a stray and needed to fight for food. Potential aggression in puppies needs to be nipped in the bud if they get possessive over food, toys or are fearful of anything unfamiliar. Positive reinforcement when training is vital.
There are too many dogs in shelters having been given up by owners for a variety of different reasons so think carefully before you choose and make sure your dog’s personality and temperament is aligned with your own. Here’s to happy days with your loyal and trusted companion.
