When it comes to lifestyles and dogs, compatibility is very important. Dogs are social animals and thrive on being with you. Some dogs enjoy relaxing with you at home, or hanging around while you do chores. Most dogs enjoy outdoor activities and trips. Whenever we ask "who wants to go out?" or "who wants to go for a w-a-l-k?", both Maggie's and Toby's ears pick up, their tails wag, and they're ready to go. It never fails. They love to drive around the neighborhood, or go to the petstore. They've been to the car wash, and on ferryboats. Away on vacation. Even into the office for a day-now that was a real adventure. The list goes on and on.
"Dogs feel very strongly that they should always go with you in the car, in case the need should arise for them to bark violently at nothing right in your ear".
-Dave BarryTake a look around outside, and you'll see dogs everywhere.
And it seems that the smaller dogs can be "smuggled" into stores pretty easily. I've seen a Yorkie riding in a shopping cart at The Home Depot, and a Shih-Tzu in the carriage at the grocery store. Then there was the time, a woman had her small dog tucked under her arm in the drugstore.
The most unusual sighting? A miniature dog sitting in a woman's handbag on the counter at the phone store. Definitely, a double-take moment. The point? Dogs want to go just about anywhere and do anything with you.
Okay, maybe not shopping for a new cell phone.
Your lifestyle is a big factor to consider when deciding on the type of dog to choose. A key to success between lifestyles and dogs is to find a dog that's compatible with you and your way of life....Like most things in life, you just need to know what to look for!
City or country?Urban or suburban?Big house, small apartment, or something in between?While it's true that small dogs can live in large houses, large dogs don't necessarily fit very well in small apartments. They need room to romp, play, and stretch. A Chihuahua can feel at home in a large house, but what about a Greyhound in a small apartment? While they make wonderful pets, these dogs need large amounts of exercise, estimated at a staggering 13 miles a day! If you live in a condo or apartment building, do you have stairs or an elevator? With a dog, you'll be using them at least a couple of times a day.Neighbors? Do you have neighbors living in close proximity? Will a dog disturb them or be a potential problem?
Are you single without any commitments?How will your new dog fit into your lifestyle? You can't drop everything to run out with friends for the day or evening without walking and feeding your new dog! Do you live with others? Have a spouse? Partner? Roommates? Other family members? How will a new dog fit into this living situation? Do you work long hours or travel frequently on business? You'll need to find a breed that can handle you being away from home, or be boarded.Are you retired and like to travel? You'll want to bring your dog with you whenever you can.Do you already have other pets? If you have cats or other dogs, how well do you anticipate that your newcomer will be treated?
What's the predominant weather climate in your area?Hot and humid? Sunny and dry?Temperate or cool and damp?Or perhaps you have four distinct seasons?
Some dogs are better suited to certain climates, including weather extremes and altitude. During the "dog days" of summer, some breeds find it harder to stay cool. Short-coated dogs will find it easier to tolerate the heat than long-haired dogs. For example, a Bernese Mountain dog which requires a lot of exercise, and doesn't tolerate heat well, wouldn't make a good city dog. Remember, dogs don't perspire the way people do. They cool off through their tongue by panting, and by sweating through the pads of their paws. 
What do you do in your leisure time?Are you a homebody, or always on the go?If you're an avid gardener, consider a breed other than Terriers who enjoy digging!Like to go for walks? Or jogs or bike rides? Hiking, or hunting, or to the cabin in the mountains? Cross-country skiing? Consider a dog that is bred for the outdoors such as Spaniels, Setters, or Retrievers to accompany you on your outdoor activities.
Do you have children or will you have them someday? If so, choose a dog that is kid friendly and expose your puppy to children when he is little.Maybe you have young children? Generally if they are under age 5 they will regard their puppies are playthings, someone to dress up, and sit at their tea party! Look for a breed that can handle this type of activity.With school age children, consider a dog that can tolerate alot of activity and is used to the hustle and bustle of kids and their friends. Children of this age can also learn the responsibilities of dog ownership, including walking and feeding. The affable Labrador Retriever makes a wonderful playmate for children, as does a Golden Retriever, also known for its pleasant, gentle nature.
Once you evaluate your lifestyle and living situation, identifying the best dog for you and your family will be much easier.
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