Breeds of dog differ in many ways: body size - Chihuahua to Bernese Mountain Dog. They differ in proportion like the Pit Bull to the Greyhound. They differ in head shape, ear shape, coat length and texture and in colour. Get a book and study a list dog breeds.

Much of their physical traits matched the need for the function of the original breed. Do not rely only on the dog breed pictures. There are many directories of breeds of dogs. Buy one, or go to the library and borrow one.

Today, behavior is even more important.

Too often prospective dog owners select a breed based on its physical trait and not its character.

The toughest guard dog is of no using if it falls asleep at the front door. Dogs enjoy as many breed behavioral traits as they do physical traits. Don't be surprised by this.

Dogs are prone to act in certain ways that are dictated by their genes. Not all dogs will act the same within a breed, but most will.

There is one behavioral trait that is present in all dogs. Their love towards their owner/master.

You need to first analyze why you want a dog, before you select a dog. If you have kids you need to find out the breed that is good with kids. But, do not forget, you also need to teach your kids how to behave with a dog. A dog is NOT a stuffed emotionless toy. It is a living creature with emotions. Also, please, do not make kids take responsibility for a dog. It is an adult job to do that.

If you are basically older in years, well you will not want a breed that needs lots of exercise. Or, a breed that may pull your arm out when walking.

The size of a dog needs to be considered. If you have a huge dog and a small kid, they could bump heads and the child get hurt and that being no fault of the dog.

Choosing a breed entails more than looking at pictures. Check out the breed profile. Talk with owners of the same breed in the same circumstances as you. Meet some "live" dogs of the kind you are looking at.

Study the history of the breed. It will show you what molded that breed to be what it is today. For instance, an old breed of dog that was bread to dig out vermin will end up digging up your yard...it is in the genes!

A sheep herder may end up nipping a little in the heels.

Also, check into the more modern breeds. There are some amazing new "oodle" dog breeds. These new "oodle" dogs are great for dog allergy sufferers.

Make sure your energy levels match.

And all that being said. Look for the surprises. For instance, the greyhound race dogs make amazing pets for seniors, or those who do not partake in lots of activity. They make great apartment dogs. They love to sleep in the day, often curled up on a couch or pillow. They do NOT crave activity or exercise. They are trained to perfection and they are loving dogs. Go figure. Just when we think we have it all figured out.

So you see, do not just run out and get a dog. Get the right dog for your household. Train that dog and you will have a friend and family member for life.

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Ruth's passions are people and pet health. She is very active with dog therapy visiting. She has two certified therapy dogs that visit in Senior Health Care Centers. Her Dog Blog: http://www.happypetstop.com/blog Her Dog Therapy Visiting site: http://www.mimfreedom.com/dogtherapy.htm

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