Strategies to Help Match You With Your Ideal Dog

Realistically consider activity level, who will care for and train dog, interest in grooming/shedding, and average lifespan of breeds you admire.

Lifestyle   

Research temperament, exercise needs, health risks and personality quirks averaging characteristics instead of relying on stereotypes.

Breed's Tendencies

Try trusted breed suggestion tools but also hear first-hand advice from breed-specific rescue groups.   

Dog-Selector Tools

Seek breed info from veterinarian associations and shelters over influencers or tabloid articles making generalizations.

Reputable Sources

While guessing mixtures is fun, mixes display wide ranges combining various purebred traits unpredictably.  

Mixes Vary Wildly

To confirm compatibility, politely request introductions to potential dogs through foster caregivers or past owners when feasible.

Meet Dogs

Fence yard, puppy-proof electrical wires/toxic items, install pet gates and research training so preparations are made.   

Prep Home

How to Choose a Pet From the Shelter