Choosing the right dog for you and your family is a mix of practical planning, honest self-reflection, and emotional connection. Here’s a guide to help you find the best fit:


  1. 🧠 Know Yourself & Your Lifestyle

Ask yourself:

  • Activity level: Are you outdoorsy or more of a homebody?
  • Schedule: Are you home most of the day or gone long hours?
  • Home type: House with a yard? Apartment?
  • Allergies: Any family members allergic to pet dander?
  • Experience: First-time dog owner or experienced?
  • Health: Do you have any limiting health factors (size, strength, coordination, medical)?  Are they likely to improve or get worse with age?

  • 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Consider the Whole Family
  • Ages of kids: Some breeds are better with small children (e.g., Golden Retrievers, Beagles).
  • Other pets: Choose a dog with a known friendly disposition if you already have animals.
  • Energy match: Some families thrive with a playful, energetic dog; others need calm and gentle.

  • 🐾 Breed Research (or Mixes)

Some breed traits to consider:

TemperamentLow-MaintenanceEnergeticMore Allergy Friendly
Golden RetrieverGreyhoundBorder ColliePoodle
Labrador RetrieverBasset HoundGerman ShepherdsMaltese
Cavalier King CharlesBulldogTerrier MixesShih Tzu

Mixed breeds can be amazing too—shelters are full of sweet, unique dogs that just need a chance.


  • 📏 Size & Space
  • Small dogs (Chihuahuas, Dachshunds): easier in apartments, may be fragile around young kids.
  • Medium dogs (Cocker Spaniels, Bulldogs): good balance of manageability and companionship.
  • Large dogs (Labradors, Great Danes): often gentle but need space and exercise.

  • 🩺 Health & Care Needs
  • Some breeds are prone to health issues (e.g., Bulldogs can have respiratory issues).
  • Think about grooming—Poodles need regular trims; Labs, not so much.
  • Ask about lifespan and common illnesses.

  • 🏡 Where to Get Your Dog
  • Shelters/rescues: Tons of loveable dogs waiting. Ask about temperament tests!
  • Reputable breeders: If you’re looking for a specific breed, make sure the breeder is ethical and responsible.
  • Avoid puppy mills or pet stores that don’t provide proper care.

  • ❤️ Meet Before You Commit

Spend time with the dog before adopting. Bring the whole family to:

  • See how the dog reacts to everyone
  • Check if the energy levels match
  • Gauge comfort and connection

  • ✅ Trust Your Gut (and Do a Trial)
  • Some shelters offer trial adoptions. It’s okay to take time deciding—it’s a long-term commitment!