Select the right dog for the household Published Jan. 27, 2011 By Sgt. Timothy S. Hair Animal Care Specialist F. E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, WYO -- For many people a dog is a member of the family. The unconditional love and companionship dogs provide make the home complete. However, not just any dog may do. Therefore, deciding what kind of dog to get is as important as deciding whether to get a dog in the first place. There are many reference sources out there to research when looking for a potential new dog. Breed books are available in virtually any bookstore or library; numerous Web sites are dedicated to different breeds and may even provide a "selection quiz." Of course, personal knowledge from breeders, other owners and veterinary service personnel are also great resources. Selecting the right breed for each family, home and lifestyle is important. When researching breeds, pay close attention to many factors including: Temperament - Would a more active or subdued dog be preferred? A dog that is easily trained, or strong-willed? A dog that is friendly to everyone, or one that is loyal to family but distant with strangers? A dog that needs a lot of attention from family members and lots of activity, or a dog that is content to be alone for periods of time during the day? Size - Find out how large, in height and weight, that cute puppy will become before bringing it home. Remember that larger dogs require more food and space; does the yard and living room allow enough space to meet the dogs needs? Keep in mind some little dogs still need lots of room to run around and burn off energy. Coat/Grooming Needs - All dogs need to be groomed regularly to stay healthy and clean; all dogs will shed. Some dogs shed profusely all year round, others only in clumps for a few weeks and some dogs shed only a little. Long-coated dogs are beautiful to look at, but require a lot of effort to stay that way. Short-coated dogs are easier to care for, but may still shed, and may require protection in cold or wet weather. Dogs with fancy trims may need professional grooming. Decide how much time and energy can be afforded to grooming, when deciding on a breed. Male or Female - In general, there is no significant difference in temperament between male and female dogs. Having the dog neutered or spayed will eliminate most minor differences between the two. Puppy or Adult - The advantage of getting a puppy is the ability to raise it from the beginning, and participate in its training and socialization every step of the way. The disadvantage is that training a puppy requires a great deal of time and patience. Busy families should keep in mind that puppies cannot be left alone for more than a few hours at a time. They need plenty of trips outside, frequent meals, and a lot of interaction with people. Adult dogs, whether purchased directly from a breeder or adopted from a rescue group, can be ideal for people who want a dog with fewer needs. Mature dogs tend to be calmer; some are already house-trained and know some basic obedience. Health - Some breeds may be prone to hereditary diseases or conditions. Many breeds can be screened for certain conditions, such as hip or eye problems. Being educated about the health considerations of certain breeds can help to avoid or alleviate future problems. Price - Regardless of breed, before getting a dog, consider the cost. Dogs should have, at a minimum, annual visits to a veterinarian. They require routine shots and should have regular fecal exams and heartworm tests. It is also recommended that dogs be on monthly heartworm and flea and tick preventives (sometimes dependent on location). All of this combined can easily total between $300-$400 a year, and often more at a civilian veterinary practice. This estimate does not even take into account if the dog were to get sick or injured. Therefore, be sure to take an honest look at finances first. Military Service - One consideration sometimes not found in those breed books or Web sites is military service. Military members move frequently. Different duty stations, cities and countries have different laws and ordnances regarding dog breeds. For instance, several commands, installations, and privatized housing contractors have restrictions that may include Doberman Pinschers, Chow Chows and wolf hybrids. Some cities in the U.S. also have restrictions and may require that an owner carry additional liability insurance if they have pit bull breeds. If moving outside the continental United States, many host nations have very strict laws on dangerous dogs. Germany and England, for example, do not allow pit bulls and some other breeds to be brought into those countries. Italy has requirements to have certain breeds of dogs muzzled when in public. It is also very important to note that it is generally a bad idea to get a new dog when a permanent change of station is imminent, as there may not be time to complete necessary examinations and vaccinations that may be required by the next location. The most common breeds of dogs that have restrictions because they are often considered "dangerous dogs" include: pitbull terrier, American Staffordshire terrier, English Staffordshire terrier, bull terrier, mastiffs, American Bulldog, Rottweiler, Tosa Inu, Fila Brasileiro and Dogo Argentino. This list is not all inclusive and it varies by city, state, country and installation. So, when it is time for a new dog, please research. Do not forget to check the references of any breeders or pet stores and of course, please be sure to consider adopting from a Humane Society or Animal Shelter. There are many good dogs out there in need of a home. Please understand that this article is for informational and educational purposes to assist service members in selecting a new dog. It is not intended to offend owners or disparage any of the breeds listed above. Some useful Web sites on dangerous dog laws OCONUS are: Germany: http://www.zoll.de/english_version/a0_passenger_traffic/e0_vub/h0_dangerous_dogs/index.html England: http://www.defra.gov.uk/wildlife-pets/pets/cruelty/documents/ddogslawyouleaflet.pdf Italy: http://rome.angloinfo.com/countries/italy/animals.asp#danger