Choosing the right dog

Before becoming a dog owner, make sure that the family is willing to care for your new pet. Feeding, playing, exercise, grooming and training are all essential.

Learn as much as you can about different breeds so you can choose wisely. Don't choose an active dog unless you have time and space to give him the exercise he needs. Think about grooming requirements. Long-coated dogs have beautiful thick coats but it takes time and effort to keep them that way. Short-coated dogs need less grooming but tend to shed hair all year round. In general, males have more behaviour problems than females, so families with children may be better with a female as a first-time pet.