Choosing the Right Dog Breed: Just Because You Can, Doesn’t Mean You Should

You’re researching dog breeds, and you’ve found a few that seem perfect. Maybe you’ve even met a high-energy breed that stole your heart, and you're thinking, “I can totally handle a dog like this!” But let’s stop for a minute, take a deep breath, and ask—why? Sure, you might imagine they'll mellow out with age, but what if they don’t (which is a real possibility)? Choosing a breed is like planning your next big adventure: are you picking the right challenge for you?

Small happy white dog running through a field.

Think About It Like This…

Imagine choosing between two weekend activities: running a marathon or taking a leisurely stroll in the park. Both are options, but they offer totally different experiences. One requires intense commitment, physical endurance, and preparation, while the other allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery at your own pace.

Choosing a dog breed is kind of the same. Some breeds are like running that marathon—they need lots of exercise, mental stimulation, and time to be happy. Others are more like the stroll in the park—they’re low-maintenance, laid-back, and perfectly happy with moderate activity.

So, how do you make sure you're picking the right challenge for your lifestyle? It requires some real introspection and an honest look at yourself. But don’t worry—I’ll guide you through it.

Why Choosing the Right Breed Matters

Your dog’s breed will shape their needs, temperament, and energy levels. If you don’t match the breed to your lifestyle, it can lead to frustration for both you and your dog. High-energy breeds, for example, can become destructive or anxious if they don’t get enough physical activity and mental stimulation. A dog’s natural instincts are hardwired into them through genetics—so it's not fair to get a breed that requires lots of exercise if you can’t provide it.

Examples of Common Breeds and Their Needs:

• Border Collies were bred to herd sheep. Their incredible energy and intelligence mean they’re happiest when they’re given a “job” to do. Without an outlet for their herding instincts, they might herd children, cars, or other pets instead.

• Labrador Retrievers were bred for hunting and assisting. They’re family-friendly and social but will still need an outlet for their retrieving instincts. For example, many labs love to carry things around, which could mean bringing you socks—or chewing them up if they get bored!

• Shih Tzus and Havanese are more relaxed breeds, bred for companionship, and often enjoy spending time indoors with their owners.

Tip: If you choose a dog that doesn’t fit your lifestyle, you’re not just setting yourself up for frustration but also potentially creating an unhappy environment for your pet. For instance, adopting a Husky when you live in a small apartment and work long hours could result in a restless dog that starts chewing furniture or barking excessively out of boredom.

Note: A small dog doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll be quiet or an “apartment dog.” Some small breeds, like Dachshunds, can be surprisingly vocal!

Questions to Ask Before You Pick a Breed

Before you fall in love with those big puppy eyes, take a moment to ask yourself these important questions:

1. What’s Your Energy Level?
   Do you enjoy being active, or do you prefer a more relaxed lifestyle? Some dogs need a lot of physical exercise (think running, hiking, agility, or sports), while others are content with shorter walks and lots of downtime.

2. How Much Time Do You Have?
   Certain breeds require lots of time for exercise, training, and socialization. If you work long hours or have a packed schedule, consider a breed that’s more independent and lower maintenance.

3. What’s Your Home Like?
   Do you live in a spacious house with a big yard or a cozy apartment in the city? Larger, high-energy breeds may need more space to roam, while smaller or less active breeds can thrive in smaller homes.

4. How Much Grooming Can You Commit To?
   Some breeds, like Poodles or Shih Tzus, require regular grooming to keep their coats in good condition. Other breeds, like Beagles or Boxers, need less frequent grooming but may shed more.

5. What’s the Weather Like?
   Climate can play a big role in a dog’s comfort and happiness. Breeds like Huskies, with thick coats, are better suited for colder climates, while short-coated breeds like Greyhounds might struggle in extreme cold but do well in warmer areas.

Real-Life Example: Choosing the Right Fit

Let’s use a real-life scenario to illustrate this point. Say you’re a busy professional living in a small apartment. You love running in your spare time but can only manage short workouts a few times a week. You might love the idea of a high-energy dog like a Border Collie or a Belgian Malinois—but without enough time for consistent exercise and training, these breeds could become restless, anxious, and even develop behavioural issues.

Instead, a breed like a Greyhound or a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel might be a better match. They enjoy some activity, but are generally more laid-back and don’t need hours of exercise both mental and physical, to stay happy.

Adopting a Dog is About Compatibility, Not Just Appearance

It’s easy to get caught up in the appearance of a dog. Who hasn’t fallen for a fluffy, beautiful Golden Retriever or the striking blue eyes of a Husky? But remember, you’re making a long-term commitment. Just as you wouldn’t choose a car based solely on how it looks without considering how it drives or fits your needs, the same logic applies to choosing a dog.

Many times, people choose a breed based on popularity or looks—like Dalmatians after the release of 101 Dalmatians, or French Bulldogs because they’re trendy. Unfortunately, this can lead to rehoming or behavioural issues down the road when the breed doesn’t fit the owner’s lifestyle.

Fact Check: The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) found that mismatches between dog behaviour and owner expectations are a common cause of pet relinquishment. Understanding a breed’s needs beforehand can help prevent these mismatches​

MDPI

Thinking About Adopting from a Shelter? Ask the Right Questions

If you decide to adopt a dog from a rescue or shelter, make sure to ask lots of questions. Many dogs in shelters experience high stress due to unfamiliar surroundings, noise, limited interaction, and lack of privacy. This can lead them to display behaviors that may not reflect their true personality—like excessive barking, nervousness, or withdrawal. Once adopted, dogs often need time to decompress in a stable, quiet home environment where they gradually feel safe and comfortable.

This adjustment period is sometimes referred to as the “3-3-3 rule”: three days to decompress, three weeks to start adjusting, and three months to feel fully at home. During these phases, a dog’s behaviour may shift significantly as they become more settled. For example, a dog that seemed withdrawn in a shelter may reveal a friendly and energetic side once it’s in a calm, consistent environment​

Here are some questions to consider before adopting:

• If You Have Another Dog: Ask if your current dog can meet the shelter dog before you adopt. It’s a good way to assess compatibility and avoid future conflicts. If they won’t allow this, ask why.

• Behaviour with Other Pets: If the shelter says the dog is good with cats, ask how they know that. Dogs aren’t always tested in every scenario, so it’s worth knowing if this information is from direct experience or assumption.

• Breed Confirmation: Many genetic traits are hardwired, so if a shelter labels a dog as a “lab-cross,” it’s worth asking, “What is the lab mixed with?” or “How confident are you in this breed assessment?” Misidentification is common, which can affect training approaches if you’re expecting one breed’s traits but dealing with another.

Asking questions isn’t rude—it’s about making the best decision for you and the dog. If the responses leave you unsure, it’s okay to keep looking. Given that many shelters are currently at capacity, it’s critical to ensure the dog you bring home is a good match to avoid the difficult decision of rehoming them later.

Conclusion: Make the Smart Choice for Both You and Your Dog

Choosing the right breed isn’t just about finding a dog you like—it’s about finding a dog that fits your life. By considering your lifestyle, energy level, and environment, you’ll set yourself up for a long, happy, and harmonious relationship with your new best friend.

Ready to find your perfect match? Do your research, and remember: just because you can get a certain breed doesn’t mean you should—make sure it’s the right fit for both you and your dog.

If you have any further questions, feel free to give TrailWag a call! Our Settling-In Support or Pup Start Program can start you on the right path to choosing the right dog for you.

Sources:

• Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA). "Understanding Why Pets Are Rehomed" - Link to study