Dogs. Also known as man's best friend for over 14,000 years. Dogs are wonderul companions, buddies, coworkers, protectors, and much more. Over 1/3 of all American households own a dog.
The domestic dog is a descendent of the wolf and jackal or fox. The AKC (American Kennel Club) recognizes 145 breeds of dogs today, and all of them are divided into of seven groups: Sporting dogs, Hounds, Working dogs, Terriers, Toys, Nonsporting dogs, and Herding dogs.
Deciding to get a dog is a major choice. It requires much understanding of the time, money, and energy you will be requires to have to meet the dogs needs. Getting a dog should NEVER be an impulse decision, because dogs have life spans of almost 2 decades!
Things that you should consider before getting a dog are time, size,temperament, gender, and looks. Dogs need lots of time from you, for feeding, training, exercise, playing, vet trips, and cleanup. If you're unsure about fitting a dog into your schedule, then maybe you should consider a lower-mainenance pet. Size also plays an important role when choosing a dog. If you live in a small apartment, a large dog breed may not be the kind for you. Also, taking care of a dog takes a big bite out of your budget. The bigger the dog, the bigger the sum.
You should choose a dog with a temperament that suits you. Some are super-loving, some are lively, laid back, super-protective, active, vocal, animal friendly, or a loner. You have to read up on the characteristics of the dog breed you want and determine if you're compatible.
In general, when it comes to choosing which sex of dog, females are gentler and make better-tempered and easier-to-handle pets. There are exceptions, though.
Everyone knows that most puppies are cute, but have you ever seen a dog that you thought was just hideously ugly and wondered how anyone could love it? That's another thing to consider. Just because the puppy is cute, doesn't mean that the adult dog will be just as adorable. Make sure you know what your dog will look like in a few years beforehand.
What to Look For When Choosing a Dog
| Dog Years | People Years |
| 3 months | 5 years |
| 6 months | 10 years |
| 1 year | 15 years |
| 2 " " | 24 " " |
| 3 " " | 28 " " |
| 4 " " | 32 " " |
| 5 " " | 36 " " |
| 6 " " | 40 " " |
| 7 " " | 44 " " |
| 8 " " | 48 " " |
| 9 " " | 52 " " |
| 10 " " | 56 " " |
| 11 " " | 60 " " |
| 12 " " | 64 " " |
| 13 " " | 68 " " |
| 14 " " | 72 " " |
| 15 " " | 76 " " |
| 16 " " | 81 " " |
| 17 " " | 86 " " |
| 18 " " | 91 " " |
| 19 " " | 96 " " |
| 20 " " | 101 " " |
