1Dogs make wonderful pets, but choosing the right animal for your family is a complicated decision. There are several factors to
consider before contacting an animal shelter or a breeder. A basic knowledge of dog breeds will help you pick the perfect pet. 2First, you need to ask yourself why you’re interested in owning a dog. Figuring out how a dog fits into your lifestyle is the first step in selecting the correct breed. Many people interested in adopting a dog are looking for companionship. Mixed-breed dogs are often excellent companions. Smaller breeds like the bichon frisé and the beagle are among the most affectionate dogs. 3Other people adopt dogs for security reasons. Though many dogs are protective of their owners, some breeds are better at sounding an alarm than others. German shepherds, rottweilers, and Doberman pinschers are natural guardians. Their barks will alert you when something out of the ordinary occurs. 4Once you’ve identified your reasons for adopting, you can narrow your search by taking a look in the mirror. Your dog should fit your unique lifestyle. If you live in a tiny apartment in a major city, an energetic border collie is probably not the dog for you. Each breed has specific exercise requirements that an owner must meet. If you’re unable to satisfy your dog’s need to roam, you could encounter a number of behavioral problems. 5Consider the amount of space, time, and energy you can devote to your pet. Sporting dogs are great for people with active lifestyles. Labrador retrievers, Irish setters, and cocker spaniels would all be more than happy to accompany you on a hike through the woods. If you’re more of a homebody, you might want to snuggle on the couch with a basset hound or a pug. 6Next, you should think about the other people and animals in your life. Certain breeds do not get along with children or other pets very well. Some dogs are so mellow that they won’t become aggressive even if toddlers pull on their tails or cats hiss in their direction. Newfoundlands and Brittany spaniels get along well with strangers, children, and other animals. 7Grooming is another consideration. Besides regular brushing, some breeds require additional maintenance. You must clean the skin folds on bulldogs and shar-peis regularly to avoid serious skin infections. Consider the amount of time you can devote to grooming each week. If someone in your household has a dander allergy, look for a hypoallergenic breed. Poodles, terriers, and greyhounds are less likely to irritate a loved one’s allergies. 8Adopting a dog is a rewarding experience for the entire family. Investigating the various breeds will help you select the dog that’s right for you. Read the passage on the left to answer the following questions: 37) This passage is designed to A) encourage readers to train their own dogs. B) describe the various people who have dogs. C) help readers understand how to select the right breed. D) persuade readers to adopt a dog from an animal shelter.
