Matching your Personality with your Pet

With hundreds of different dog breeds out there to choose from, not to mention thousands of beloved mongrels and mutts available to us, matching our personality with that of our pet will ensure a long-lasting bond and connection that can’t be denied. So there’s obviously a little more to be considered when it comes to choosing our best friend besides the first canine that catches our eye.   Perhaps you’ve seen some of those online posts where people actually look a great deal like their pets and some of these resemblances are pretty remarkable. It’s one thing to look like your four-legged friend and another scenario altogether when it comes to daily interaction and forming a lifelong bond with them.   Lessons From Celebrity Lifestyles   Another scenario we may have seen on the internet is that of celebrities with their pets who are often seen underneath the same type of spotlight. There are two sides to this interesting coin; those who pamper their pooches and the others who may neglect or discard them due to their hectic schedules and celebrity status. This is just another reason why we should carefully weigh out our many options when it comes to choosing a companion animal.   For example, let’s say you’re kind of a couch potato, but you have your mind set on a big dog. This may seem like a “no-can-do” type of a situation, but not necessarily if you consider some important options. No matter what kind of dog you’re wanting to adopt, they’ll need plenty of exercise, but there are some larger canines that are less active compared to others.   Sleepy Scenarios   Most of us are aware, for the most part, that a “dog’s life” is one to be envied. Being loved, fed, sleeping most of the day away, relaxing and having fun is a normal day for most of these smaller, pampered pooches. If you have your eyes on a big dog, you may want to consider one of these larger breeds, sometimes referred to as “mat dogs.”   According to sleep.org, they have garnered this nickname because they sleep longer and take “endless naps,” compared to some other breeds. Some of these lounging layabouts include:  

• The Great Pyrenees
• Mastiffs
• Newfoundlands
• Saint Bernards

  These big lugs still need plenty of regular exercise, but potential pet owners who live in smaller spaces can rest assured these tighter confines shouldn’t be a deal breaker for bigger dogs.   More Active Lifestyles   For those of us who are more active, we’ll want to match our athleticism with that of a  prospective pet with similar attributes. Think of it this way, if you’re a swimmer, consider canines who love the water like retrievers, labradors and other “water dogs.” Runners, joggers, cyclists and hikers will want a dog that will keep pace with you physically:  

• Dalmatians
• Greyhounds
• Huskies
• Malamutes
• Whippets

  These dogs are built for speed, endurance, stamina and it’s in their very nature to be more active, so they should be able to keep up with you stride-for-stride.   But remember to keep a close consultation and an open conversation with your veterinarian when it comes to any of these dogs. Dependent upon their age, breed, weight and other factors, like diet and activity levels that could vary over time, some of these could potentially put their health at risk. Keep an eye on your companion and your personalities will continue to be in check while you venture through your life together.