Adopt the right dog for your activity level

Are you a couch potato with a Jack Russell?  Are you a marathon runner with a Boxer?  Many people do not do any research when adopting a dog; they make an emotional decision based on the “cute puppy” factor.  When adopting a dog, you are making an important 10+ year commitment.  Finding  the perfect dog can mean the difference between a crazy dog with pent up energy that is acting out or a happy dog that is content with life. Here are a few common breeds for different activity levels perfect for:

1/Dog Yoga :  King Charles Spaniel, Pug, Bichon Frisé, Greyhound, Bull Mastiff, Bulldog, and of course the Chihuahua

2/ 1K: Beagle, Cocker Spaniel, Boston Terrier, Daschshund, Lhasa Apso, Havanese, Bernese Mountain Dog,

3/ 5K:  Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, Corgi, Miniature Schnauzer, Boxer, German Shepard,

3/ Marathon + trick training and/or agility:  Vizsla, Jack Russell, Cairn Terrier, Poodle, Sheltie, Border Collie, Alaskan Malamute, Husky, Australian Shepherd

Of course, many of the breeds above may not need a lot of exercise but they need a job to do and plenty of mental stimulation or they will become destructive, aggressive, and/ or bark excessively.

It is always advisable to adopt from a shelter and most shelters can tell you the breed of the dog that you are adopting.  If you do not have the time or willingness to spend in training, exercising, and teaching your dog, then you may want to get a low maintenance dog.

It is worth it not to rush into anything and to do your homework so that you know that you and your dog will have a happy life together.  When I was ready to adopt, I knew that I wanted an active dog, one that did not shed or bark and that was small enough to take with me wherever I went, the Cairn Terrier fit all of my requirements and I got Jack and him and I make a perfect team!!