KXLF

Posted: May 17, 2009 10:00 PM
Updated: May 18, 2009 9:29 PM

Whether you have children

Simply taking dog breeds into consideration isn’t sufficient, says Vicki Kirby of the Humane Society of Fairfax, Va. “It is amazing to me how many people want a dog they know nothing about,” she says. “They see a picture and fall in love with the look of the dog and have no idea what this type of dog is really like. The most important quality to look for is the dog’s personality and disposition. Even if they know the traits of the breed, a particular dog may not have those traits.”

The Humane Society of Fairfax uses a questionnaire that can be downloaded online then faxed or emailed. The society also sends email notifications when a potential match arrives. Of course, it’s important to meet your potential new pup in person, say both Lytle and Kirby. And it’s never a good idea to fall for a pretty face.

“We always tell people you need to know yourself, know what your own lifestyle is,” Lytle says. “You might be seduced by a young border collie that is the cutest thing you’ve ever seen, but if you have knee or hip problems, and your idea of exercise is just one walk around the block, you and the border collie are not going to be happy.” Instead, devote time and care when selecting a dog, and that will vastly improve your chances of living happily ever after.