Most pet owners when asked why they chose a dog will reply that they were looking for companionship. Getting a dog for “company” can be a rewarding and life-enriching experience if you choose wisely. To often pet owners are sucked in by the cuteness of puppies or the need of an older dog only to find they have not made the right choice in the dog and the level of companionship they desired is not possible. Experts recommend that if you are considering getting a dog for companionship that you do your research carefully before making a final selection. So if you are potential pet owner looking to enrich your life with a four-legged friend here is what you should know about how to choose a dog for companionship-
- Benefits of companion animals-There are many benefits to getting a companion animal. Some of these are: comfort and companionship, the ability to receive unconditional love and affection and the opportunity to develop a human-animal bond. Companion animals can also assist individuals with special needs and help make a social connection with other people. Companion animals can also provide a motivation to exercise that leads to enhanced health.
- Make your decision carefully. Some pet owners feel that deciding whether or when to adopt an animal companion is almost as important a decision as selecting a human companion, or having a child. This decision is worthy of important thought and consideration. Deciding on a particular species for a companion, and then selecting a breed, and finally selecting an individual animal, are significant decisions. This decision will affect the likely compatibility of a person and animal in the future. For example, dog breeds vary considerably in the type of companion they will be. These breed traits are genetic, learned, and environmental. In addition, certain breeds are predisposed to the health problems which owners should be well aware of.
- Don’t rely on pass experience. It is interesting to note that adults who live with animals tend to have experienced animals as children. These pet owners often select species and breeds of animals similar to those they had as children. Yet pet advocates stress that the selection of a breed due to previous exposure may not always be in an adult’s or family’s best interest.
- Do use your judgment. A person’s expectations are key in choosing whether to adopt an animal, and which species, breed, and individual to select. It is important to ask yourself the following questions when looking to get a companion animal.
- Will the animal provide only companionship or also be household protection?
- Does one want a dog that will rarely challenge authority?
- What level of commitment do you want to your companion dog?
- Do you desire a lap dog or one that will require extensive physical activity?
- What are your expectations? For example, someone who is seeking an animal primarily to teach a child love and responsibility, and help entertain the child, may be disappointed to learn that the animal requires considerable care and attention. An animal that provides vigilance for strangers may bark excessively at friends who are welcome. Thinking carefully about these choices is perhaps the most important step toward preventing many problems months or years later.
In today’s world where many people are living alone and feelings of loneliness seem to be increasing; it is appropriate to encourage the keeping of more companion animals under the right circumstances for any pet owner. Alternatively, it is essential to discourage mismatches between owners and companion animals because this could lead to crises and separation for both the animals and the people who are involved. Keep in mind that there is a growing body of research literature as a resource to assist people in building compatible relationships with animals and making appropriate decisions on the right companion.
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