It’s often easy to think about life BD and AD (‘before dog’ and ‘after dog’) and assume that any dog you bring into your home will change your life in the same way. This couldn’t be further from the truth and it’s why many dogs find themselves in rescue organisations or just unhappy (along with their owner). There are different types of dog owners, just as there are different types of dog breeds with various needs. So, it’s important to find the right match: a dog whose needs fit into your life and your expectations, so you can both be happy together.
So often we just look at the dog part of this matchmaking process but it’s important to look at the other end of the lead too and think about what kind of dog owner you are going to be.
Be honest as you work through our ‘What Type of Dog Owner Are You?’ quiz. There are no right or wrong answers, but it might just help guide you to your perfect canine partner.
Q1: Dogs love the outdoors! What are your views on the great outdoors?
a) Love it! Can’t wait to be outside walking, hiking, exploring… and don’t like being stuck in the house b) I enjoy a daily walk (especially if the weather is fine) but nothing too strenuous before getting back home to relax c) It’s OK as long as it’s not wet or cold d) Sorry… I’m an indoor person
Q2: You’ll need to puppy-proof your home! How houseproud are you?
a) As long as my home is comfortable and hygienic, the rest doesn’t really matter b) I like things tidy and in their place - although sometimes I can let things get a bit messy for a day or two c) I don’t go over the top but I do always like everything tidy and clean d) I’m a bit of a ‘clean freak’ – and am not happy unless everything is spotless
Q3: Dogs love to run around! What does ideal dog-owning look like to you?
a) My dog will come absolutely everywhere with me and I am looking forward to getting involved in new dog activities and sports b) My dog will be an active part of the family and I’m looking forward to getting more exercise and doing some training but I do have a life outside of that c) My dog will have to fit into the family – although I know I will have to do some walking d) My life won’t change – it’ll just have a dog in it
Q4: All dogs need training – how do you feel about that?
a) I can’t wait! Puppy classes, socialisation classes, adolescent classes, ongoing dog training and dog activities and sports… I want to do it all b) Training is part of dog owning and I know it helps build the bond between dog and their person so I’ll be signing up for classes straightaway c) I know I have to train my dog but it’s not something I’m that excited by d) I really don’t fancy it and after all, dogs can muddle along without any training
Q5: What’s your view on dog hair?
a) I really don’t mind – and all dogs shed their hair everywhere, don’t they? It’s what a vacuum cleaner is for! b) A bit of hair is part of dog owning but I don’t want everything covered! c) I’d prefer that a dog keeps its hair to itself but I’m not going to object to a little d) No way – my house and clothes need to be spotless and let’s face it, dog hair gets everywhere.