Finding the Right Dog for You

You want a dog. You need a dog. But what you really want (and really need) is the right dog.

Remember: That adorable little puppy you just fell in love with will not stay a puppy for very long. In fact, puppyhood lasts only about eight months. Then, you have almost two years of adolescence. Before you know it, he or she will be a full-grown dog. If the puppy’s not right for you, the grown dog won’t be either—and he’ll be a lot bigger.

So, remember this: When you bring home a puppy, you’re not bringing home a stuffed dog that won’t ever change. You’re bringing home a living, breathing, growing creature. You need to make the right choice at the beginning.

People pick dogs for a multitude of reasons, most of them filtered through their own emotional needs. They think the dog has picked them, or they look into those big eyes and sense some sort of spiritual connection. Some people see a lonely, nervous puppy and feel sorry for it. Or they pick one simply based on how it looks.

But picking a dog—whether a puppy or a grown dog—is a serious affair, something that requires a lot of thought and planning. After all, you’re making a commitment that will last the length of your dog’s life.

It is important to make the right choice. The Dog Whisperer, Cesar Millan, has a new book, Your New Puppy, where you will find everything you need to know for choosing the right dog: From where to buy it to making sure it is compatible with your lifestyle. PLUS a breed by breed guide to dogs’ personalities, health and exercise needs.