If you are not sure which breed will best suit your lifestyle and your family, it's well worth doing your homework: after all, there are more than 400 breeds to choose from.
Try the HillsPet.com Dog Breed Catalog: This is an excellent place to start, and it's easy to use.
Search the Internet: There are dozens of websites dedicated to specific breeds of dogs.
Consider your family and lifestyle: If you have young children, you will want a sturdy, sociable and even-tempered breed. If your family enjoys an outdoor lifestyle, you should consider a breed that will thrive on this and be part of your active life. On the other hand, if you prefer the quiet life, or have a small yard, consider a breed that needs less exercise, and would be happy relaxing with you indoors.
It's also important to bear in mind how big your dog will be when he reaches adulthood; you've got room for the puppy right now, but what about later on? Also consider how much time you are willing to devote to grooming and brushing your pet, as some long-haired breeds may require daily maintenance.
Tasty Tips
Ask the right questions: Once you have a breed in mind, talk to people who already own the breed and ask them about their experiences, specifically in the areas of training, aggression and health. A local vet will also be able to give you advice and let you know which breeds have a tendency to inherit certain health-related conditions. For example, large-breed dogs should have their hips and elbows checked for dysplasia. If you plan to breed your pet, ask your veterina,rian about how to get your pet's hips and elbows certified.
Some breeds, for example collies, Labradors and Irish setters, should have specific eye tests. Some breeds should have blood tests for specific conditions, for example, von Willebrand's Disease in dobermans. After you've found your perfect dog, be sure to choose the right nutrition to meet your dog's special needs.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health, tailored for unique needs of Small and Mini puppies
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Chicken & Rice Stew
Chicken & Rice Stew with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Vegetable Stew
Gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & supporting development in growing puppies
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Savory Stew with Chicken & Vegetables
Chicken & Vegetables recipe with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to help your puppy build immunity and strong bones
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Chicken & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Chicken & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy.
Hill's Science Diet Adult 6+ Large Breed Chicken Meal, Barley & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports energy level, joint health, and beautiful coat in large breed mature dogs
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Brown Rice Recipe
Gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & supporting development in growing puppies
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
For the unique nutritional needs of mature Small & Mini dogs
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small & Mini Beef & Barley Entrée
Beef & Barley Entrée with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small & Mini Savory Stew with Chicken & Vegetables
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small & Mini dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Beef & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Beef & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to support mobility and muscle mass for older dogs.
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Large Breed Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Chicken & Barley Entrée
Chicken & barley entree with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Chicken & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Chicken & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to support mobility and muscle mass for older dogs
Hill's Science Diet Puppy No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Supports healthy brain, eye, muscle, bone & immune system development in growing puppies
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Chicken Meal, Barley & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports energy level and beautiful coat in mature dogs
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Related articles
Helpful Ways to Keep Your Dog Safe Around the Holidays
Holidays can be a busy, frantic time of year that most dogs are accustomed to. Ensure your dog stays safe by following our quick tips.
Choosing the Best Toys for Your Dog
Play is an essential part of every dog's life. Find out what types of dog toys help them exercise and strengthen their bond with you.
Addison's Disease in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
Learn about Addison's disease, or Hypoadrenocorticism, in dogs, including a wide range of symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options.
Cancer in Dogs: Causes, Diagnosis & Treatments
Find out what causes cancer in dogs and the treatment options you have if your dog is diagnosed. Discover your options here.
Pyoderma in Dogs: What You Need to Know
Learn what pyoderma in dogs looks like, what causes it and how nutrition & your dog's food can play a role in preventing and treating the infection.
Helping a New Dog's Anxiety After Coming Home
Anxiety can be a problem for dogs, especially ones new to your family. Learn how common anxiety symptoms like diarrhea can happen & how to help them relax.
Is My Dog Too Skinny?
Learn how to tell if your dog might be too skinny, common reasons why they could be underweight, and tips for getting them to a healthy weight.
Is Your Dog Ready for Obedience School?
Learn what kind of training to expect from an obedience school and whether or not it is a good idea for your dog, no matter his age.
3 Ideas for Exercising Older Dogs
Exercising older dogs is the best way to ensure their health, happiness and longevity. Here are three ways to get your pet exercise as they age.
What Is Dog Yoga? (& How to Do it With My Dog)
Learn how dogs can benefit from yoga's mindful breathing, physical touch and guided movements, and how to get your dog involved in your yoga routine.
When You Should Be Concerned About Your Dog's Dry Nose
A dog's nose can be an indicator of health, so learn how to best care for your dog if their nose is dry, cracked, warm, red, flaky, or has nasal discharge.
Dog Park Rules: Do's and Don'ts
Learn about the dog park rules that make for a fun time at the park. Park outings are a fun way to socialize with your dog, but safety comes first.
Dog Scooting & Recognizing Anal Gland Problems
If your dog regularly scoots on the carpet, the cause may be their anal glands. Learn how to recognize issues and how you can help relieve the itch.
Why is My Dog Chasing Their Tail?
Learn why your dog can get overly excited about chasing his tail, including common reasons like boredom & parasites, and how you can help them stop.
Tips for Helping Your Dog's ACL Surgery Recovery
Learn how you can help your dog recover from ACL surgery, including tips for their activity, medications and nutrition.
Dog Food Taste & Types: Does My Dog Like Their Food?
Learn about different types of dog foods, why your dog might actually like certain ones over others and questions to ask your vet about dog food taste.
Rehoming a Dog After the Loss of a Loved One
Rehoming a dog may seem overwhelming after the death of a loved one, but there are a few simple tips you can take to help make the adjustment.
Best Dog Food: The Inside Scoop
Choosing the best food for your dog starts with choosing the right food for its needs. Learn about some of the things you should be considering.
How Do I Know If My Dog Likes Day Care?
Learn tell-tale signs to figure out if your dog really likes going to day care, as well as signs that it might be time to explore other day care options.
Tips for Traveling with Your Dog in the Car
Taking your pup on a road trip? Learn the safest means of traveling with dogs in a car.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.