Which dog is right for me - tips for choosing the right breed

The decision to get a dog is one of the most beautiful, but also one of the most responsible decisions in life. A four-legged companion will be part of your family for the next 10 to 15 years and fundamentally change your everyday life. But which dog suits me and my lifestyle? This question is on the minds of many prospective dog owners in Switzerland, as the choice of dog breeds is huge - from small Chihuahuas to large Bernese Mountain Dogs.

The right choice of breed depends on many factors: Your living situation, available time budget, physical fitness and, last but not least, personal preferences. An active hiker in the Swiss Alps has different needs than a family with small children in the city. In this comprehensive guide, you will learn how to systematically find the perfect dog breed for your living situation and what you should pay particular attention to when choosing.

The basics of choosing a breed: What you need to know before making a decision

Before you decide on a particular dog breed, you should be honest with yourself. Dogs are not accessories, but sentient beings with individual needs. Each breed was originally bred for specific tasks - hunting dogs for hunting, herding dogs for herding, guard dogs for guarding. These original characteristics are still deeply rooted in the genes today.

A Border Collie, for example, needs not only physical but also intensive mental exercise. Without sufficient exercise, behavioral problems can arise. A beagle, on the other hand, follows its strong hunting instinct and can suddenly follow an interesting trail on a walk. These typical breed characteristics should not be seen as problems, but as character traits that must fit in with your lifestyle.

The Swiss Animal Welfare Ordinance also stipulates that dog owners must provide a certificate of competence. This underlines the responsibility that comes with dog ownership. Find out about the legal regulations in your canton before you buy a dog, as these can vary.

Lifestyle and living situation: the foundation for the right choice

Your current living situation is the most important factor when choosing a breed. Do you live in a small city apartment or do you have a house with a garden? Do you work or do you have a lot of time for your dog? These questions are decisive for the well-being of your future four-legged friend.

Smaller, calmer breeds tend to be better suited to city dwellers. A French Bulldog or a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel will need less space than a German Shepherd. However, it is important to remember that even small dogs need daily walks and exercise. Size alone is not the deciding factor - a Jack Russell Terrier can be very energetic and loud despite its small size.

If you live in a rented apartment, make sure you check with your landlord in advance whether dogs are allowed. In Switzerland, there is no general right to keep pets in rented apartments. Also consider your neighbors - a barking dog can quickly lead to conflicts.

Your everyday working life also plays a major role. Puppies and young dogs should not be left alone for more than two to three hours. Adult dogs also need regular breaks and should not be left alone for eight hours or longer every day. Consider solutions such as dog daycare, dog sitters or flexible working hours.

Activity levels and exercise needs of different dog breeds

The need for exercise varies greatly between different dog breeds. While a pug is happy with two leisurely walks a day, an Australian Cattle Dog needs several hours of intensive activity every day.

Highly active breeds such as the Border Collie, Australian Shepherd or Weimaraner are ideal companions for sporty people. They are ideal for activities such as jogging, cycling, hiking or dog sports. These breeds were bred for intensive work and need a task. Without sufficient activity, they can develop destructive behavior.

Medium-active breeds such as Golden Retrievers, Labradors and German Shorthairs need about 1-2 hours of exercise a day. They are versatile and adapt well to different activity levels. These breeds are well suited to families and active pensioners.

Less active breeds such as Bulldogs, Basset Hounds or Shih Tzus are happy with shorter walks and more rest time. They are suitable for people who lead a more relaxed lifestyle or have physical limitations.

Important note: Even less active breeds need daily exercise and mental stimulation. Regular, appropriate activity is essential for the health of all dogs.

Family dogs: which breeds are suitable for children

Choosing a dog suitable for families requires special consideration. Children and dogs can develop wonderful friendships, but safety always comes first. A good family dog is characterized by patience, gentleness and a high irritability threshold.

Particularly child-friendly breeds are Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Beagles and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. These breeds are known for their patience and friendly nature. They are also forgiving of clumsy behavior from children and rarely show aggressive behavior.

Larger breeds such as the Bernese Mountain Dog or Leonberger can also be excellent family dogs, but due to their size they need more space and have a shorter life expectancy. Smaller breeds such as Pugs or French Bulldogs can be suitable for families with older children, but need to be handled more carefully with very young children.

Less suitable for families with small children are breeds with pronounced territorial behavior, high energy levels or hunting instincts. These include many terrier breeds, huskies and some herding dogs. This does not mean that these breeds are fundamentally hostile to children, but they do require more experienced owners and consistent training.

Dog breed comparison for families and beginners:

The various dog breeds differ considerably in their characteristics and their suitability for certain owners. Golden Retrievers are very child-friendly, have a medium to high energy level, require medium care and are well suited to beginners. Labrador Retrievers are also very child-friendly, have a high energy level, require little grooming and are ideal for beginners. Beagles are very child-friendly, have a medium energy level, require little grooming and are well suited to beginners. Bernese Mountain Dogs are very child-friendly, have a low to medium energy level, require medium grooming and are well suited to beginners. Border Collies are moderately child-friendly, have a very high energy level, require medium grooming and are not suitable for beginners. Jack Russell Terriers are medium child-friendly, have a very high energy level, require low grooming, but are also not suitable for beginners.

First-time dogs: The best breeds for beginners

As a first-time dog owner, you should choose a breed that is forgiving and willing to learn. Some breeds are much easier to train and handle than others. A good beginner dog is intelligent enough to learn quickly, but not so headstrong that it is constantly testing the boundaries.

Ideal beginner breeds are Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Havanese. These breeds are people-oriented, eager to learn and have an even temperament. They are forgiving of training mistakes and are motivated to please their humans.

Breeds that require experience include huskies, Akitas, chow chows and many types of terrier. These breeds are independent, stubborn or have special needs that require dog experience. A husky, for example, not only needs a lot of exercise, but also consistent leadership and can become an escape artist if bored.

Also consider the amount of training required: some breeds learn basic commands in just a few weeks, others need months of patient work. As a beginner, you should not overtax yourself and start with a cooperative breed.

Tip from the Swiss Kennel Club: Visit a dog training school before buying a dog and get advice. Many schools also offer "puppy advice" for prospective dog owners.

Care requirements and health aspects when choosing a breed

The amount of grooming required varies enormously between different dog breeds. While a Dalmatian can get by with a weekly brushing, a Poodle needs professional grooming at the dog groomer every 6-8 weeks. Take into account both the time and cost of grooming.

High grooming breeds with long or curly coats are Poodles, Cocker Spaniels, Afghan Hounds and Shih Tzu. These breeds need to be brushed daily to prevent matting. Regular visits to the groomer can cost several hundred francs a year.

Low-maintenance breeds such as Labradors, Beagles, Boxers and Dalmatians have short coats that only require occasional brushing. However, many short-haired breeds shed all year round, while long-haired breeds often shed seasonally.

In terms of health, you should find out about typical breed diseases before buying a dog. Large breeds are prone to hip dysplasia, small breeds to knee problems. Brachycephalic breeds (with a flat muzzle) such as pugs or French bulldogs can have breathing problems.

Particularly important: Avoid breeders who promote torture breeding. Extreme characteristics such as very short muzzles, excessive wrinkling or extreme dwarfism can lead to lifelong health problems. Reputable breeders have their breeding animals tested for breed-typical hereditary diseases and can provide the relevant evidence.

Practical checklist: How to find the right dog

Before you make your final decision, go through this systematic checklist:

1. analyze your living situation:

• Living situation (apartment/house, garden available?)
• Working hours and time available
• Family situation (children, other pets)
• Financial possibilities (purchase, running costs, vet)

2. define personal preferences:

• Desired size of the dog
• Activity level and sporting ambitions
• Tolerance for shedding and grooming
• Willingness to educate and train

3. match breed characteristics:

• The breed's need for exercise
• Trainability and willfulness
• Social behavior with children and other animals
• Health aspects and life expectancy

4. contact breeder or animal shelter:

• Visit reputable breeders (several appointments)
• Consider animal shelters as an alternative
• Get to know parent animals and siblings
• Check health certificates and papers

Take enough time to make this decision. A spontaneous purchase often leads to problems that are stressful for both you and the dog.

Avoid common mistakes when choosing a breed

Many prospective dog owners make their decision for the wrong reasons. You should avoid these common mistakes at all costs:

Deciding purely on looks: a dog may look beautiful - if its needs don't match your lifestyle, both parties will be unhappy. A Border Collie looks impressive, but without sufficient mental and physical exercise it can become a problem dog.

Underestimating the time commitment: Many people think that a small dog needs less time. This is a misconception. Even a Chihuahua needs daily walks, training and activity. The size says nothing about the amount of care required.

Impulse purchases: Don't be tempted by cute puppy eyes or pity to make spontaneous decisions. A dog purchase should be well thought out. Do at least 2-3 months of intensive research before making a decision.

False expectations of training: No dog is born well-behaved. Even the best-behaved Golden Retriever has to learn basic commands and needs consistent, loving guidance. Plan time and, if necessary, costs for a dog school.

Follow trends: Fashion trends from Instagram or movies should never be the reason for choosing a breed. A husky may look impressive in a movie, but very few people can satisfy its enormous urge to move.

An overview of the costs of different dog breeds

The purchase costs are just the tip of the iceberg. Consider the total lifetime costs over 10-15 years:

Cost overview for dogs by size:

The cost of keeping dogs varies considerably depending on the size of the breed. For small breeds up to 10 kg, you can expect to pay CHF 800-2,500, for medium-sized breeds (10-25 kg) CHF 1,000-3,000 and for large breeds over 25 kg CHF 1,200-4,000. The annual feed costs amount to CHF 300-600 for small breeds, CHF 600-1,200 for medium-sized breeds and CHF 1,200-2,000 for large breeds. Veterinary costs are CHF 300-800 per year for small breeds, CHF 400-1,000 for medium-sized breeds and CHF 500-1,500 for large breeds. Dog school costs CHF 200-800 regardless of size. Grooming costs vary annually from CHF 200-600 for small breeds to CHF 300-800 for medium-sized breeds and CHF 400-1,000 for large breeds. The annual dog tax is CHF 50-200 for small breeds, CHF 100-300 for medium breeds and CHF 150-400 for large breeds.

In addition, there are costs for initial equipment (leash, collar, basket, toys), dog liability insurance and possible care during vacations. Over the entire lifetime, the costs can add up to CHF 15,000 to 30,000.

Breeds with health problems or very high-maintenance breeds are particularly cost-intensive. Brachycephalic breeds can incur high veterinary costs, while poodles and similar breeds require regular professional grooming.

To summarize: Your path to the perfect dog

• Honest self-assessment is the most important step when choosing a breed
• Lifestyle and living situation determine which breeds are suitable
• The breed's activity level must match your capabilities
• Family dogs need special qualities such as patience and child-friendliness
• Beginners should prefer cooperative breeds that are willing to learn
• Grooming requirements and health vary greatly between breeds
• Systematic checklist helps to make an objective decision
• Avoid common mistakes such as spontaneous purchases or following trends at all costs
• Calculate total costs over the lifetime of the dog

Frequently asked questions about choosing a dog

Which dog breed is the easiest to train? Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are considered to be particularly willing to learn and cooperative. They are people-oriented and motivated to please, which makes training them easier.

Are there hypoallergenic dog breeds? There are no completely hypoallergenic dogs, but some breeds are less likely to cause allergies. Poodles, water dogs and Bichon Frisé shed less and produce fewer allergens. Test contact with the breed you want before you buy.

How much time should I plan for my dog every day? At least 2-3 hours a day for walks, feeding, grooming and activity. Puppies and very active breeds need considerably more time. Also allow time for training and socializing.

Is a mixed breed or pedigree dog better? Both have advantages and disadvantages. With pedigree dogs you know the expected characteristics better, mixed breeds are often healthier and more individual. More important than the pedigree is that the dog suits your lifestyle.

When is the best time to get a dog? Allow at least 2-3 free weeks for acclimatization. Avoid stressful periods of life such as moving house, changing jobs or a new addition to the family. Spring is a good time as puppy socialization can take place outside.

Which dog breed is suitable for allergy sufferers? Breeds with little shedding such as Poodles, Portuguese Water Dogs or Xoloitzcuintli may be suitable for some allergy sufferers. Get an allergy test and spend time with the breed you are interested in before making a decision.

How do I recognize a reputable breeder? Reputable breeders will let you meet the parent animals, have health certificates, ask lots of questions about your living situation and give lifelong advice. Avoid breeders who always have puppies available or breed several breeds at the same time.

Is a puppy or adult dog better for beginners? Adult dogs from shelters often have basic training and their character is already developed. Puppies offer more training opportunities, but require intensive care. A young adult dog (1-3 years) can be ideal for beginners.

Which dog breeds are suitable for senior citizens? Calm, medium-sized breeds such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Havanese or a calm mixed breed are well suited. What is important is a low to medium urge to move, easy care and a balanced temperament.

Can I change my lifestyle for a dog? Minor adjustments are normal and enriching. However, you should not make drastic lifestyle changes for a dog. Choose a breed that suits your current lifestyle, with some room for change.

Conclusion: The right dog breed as the foundation for a harmonious life together

Choosing the right dog breed is one of the most important decisions for a harmonious coexistence between humans and dogs. A well-chosen dog whose needs match your lifestyle will give you years of pleasure and become an indispensable member of the family.

Take the time you need to make this decision. Inform yourself thoroughly about different breeds, visit breeders and animal shelters, talk to other dog owners and seek advice from experts. Good preparation will save you and your future dog many problems and lay the foundations for a wonderful time together.

Remember: there is no one perfect dog breed for all people. But there is a suitable dog breed - or crossbreed - for every person. The important thing is that you are honest with yourself, have realistic expectations and are prepared to take responsibility for a living creature that will love you unconditionally.

Investing in a well-suited dog will pay off many times over in the form of loyalty, joy and unforgettable shared experiences. With the right preparation and selection, nothing stands in the way of a long-lasting friendship between you and your four-legged companion.