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Dog Selector
Question 1
1. What sort of residence do you have?
Flat or Apartment
Small House or Unit
House
Why are we asking you this question?
Your home environment will have an impact on the most suitable breed of dog for you.
Question 2
2. What type of area do you live in?
Inner City
Suburb
Rural
Why are we asking you this question?
Some dogs take readily to the life in cities and towns. On the other hand some dogs just have to have lots of open space to keep them happy.
Question 3
3. What size is your garden (Yard)?
None
Small
Medium
Large
Why are we asking you this question?
It is a bit like the question on the size of your residence - some larger dogs may require more space. But, again, it is not just a question of size - some dogs need access to a garden for more freedom whilst others are more content to stay inside the house.
Question 4
4. Are you able to keep a dog secure?
Yes
No
Usually
Why are we asking you this question?
Watch out - some dogs are 'wanderers' by nature, while others are protective of their territory. Keeping your dog secure is important when selecting the most suitable breed.
Question 5
5. How much daily exercise would you give your dog?
None
30 Minutes
One hour
More than one hour
Why are we asking you this question?
This is VERY important - and, again, it is not just a matter of size. Some dogs need LOTS of exercise for fitness and happiness. Never underestimate these needs. On the other hand there are many breeds that are quite content with less exercise.
Question 6
6. For how long would your dog be alone each week?
Not at all
10-20 Hours
20-40 Hours
More than 40 Hours
Why are we asking you this question?
Some dogs are happy to be left on their own - but remember, dogs are by nature pack animals, and when we bring them into our lives they think of us as their pack. Some breeds are naturally very social and need a lot of 'pack' contact.
Question 7
7. Do elderly or disabled people stay with you?
No
Sometimes
Often
Permanently
Why are we asking you this question?
If you do have older or invalid people staying with you it might be appropriate to choose a breed of dog that is not too boisterous!
Question 8
8. What age group will the owner of the dog be in?
5-18 Years
19-39 Years
40-59 Years
Over 60 Years
Why are we asking you this question?
In most cases the age of the owner should not make too much difference in the choice of dog. But there are a few exceptions. Very young people might not be able to look after a new dog that needs a lot of training. Older people might have some problems with a very energetic dog.
Question 9
9. What is the age of the youngest child living in or regularly visiting the house?
No Children
Under 5 years
6-11 Years
Over 12 Years
Why are we asking you this question?
Some dogs are just great with children! But there are some that might be more of a problem, so take care when selecting the best breed for your situation.
Question 10
10. How active is the owner?
Inactive
Not Very
Quite
Very
Why are we asking you this question?
All dogs need exercise - from very little to an awful lot! As the owner you must be able to give the dog the exercise they need to remain happy and healthy.
Question 11
11. How energetic should your dog be?
Quiet
Moderate
Lively
Very Energetic
How important is this feature to me?
Extremely Important
Very Important
Average
Less Important
Why are we asking you this question?
It is best to try and match the level of the dog's activity with your own. However, you might want a more energetic dog so you get more exercise! But do make sure you can cope with the dog's exercise needs for life.
Question 12
12. What size of dog would you prefer?
Very Small or Small
Small or Medium
Medium or Large
Large or Giant
How important is this feature to me?
Extremely Important
Very Important
Average
Less Important
Why are we asking you this question?
To a certain extent your choice of size of dog will be governed by what you like and don't like. But there are other considerations - particularly the size of your home and garden and the amount of exercise you can give your dog each day.
Question 13
13. How much are you willing to spend weekly to feed your dog?
Up to AU$10
Up to AU$25
Up to AU$35
More than AU$35
How important is this feature to me?
Extremely Important
Very Important
Average
Less Important
Why are we asking you this question?
Usually, bigger dogs eat more than little dogs and over the year the food bill can mount up. So make sure you can afford to feed your dog properly.
Question 14
14. What length of coat would you prefer?
Smooth or Short
Short or Medium
Medium or Long
Do not mind
How important is this feature to me?
Extremely Important
Very Important
Average
Less Important
Why are we asking you this question?
You may have preferences when it comes to the sort of coat you like, however, don't forget to take the dog's grooming needs into account.
Question 15
15. How much grooming would your dog receive each week?
None
One session per week
Two-three sessions per week
Daily
Why are we asking you this question?
The amount of grooming your dog needs will depend on the length and type of coat as well as the activities your dog is involved in.
Question 16
16. Do you want a dog that will protect your property?
No
Bark warnings
Defend property
How important is this feature to me?
Extremely Important
Very Important
Average
Less Important
Why are we asking you this question?
Some dogs naturally have the 'guard dog' instinct whereas others will greet all visitors - friend or foe alike - with a wag and a lick!
Question 17
17. Have you owned a dog before?
Yes
No
Why are we asking you this question?
If you are getting your first dog there are lots of things to consider, like training, diet and exercise. If you currently have a dog then you might consider how to introduce a new dog into the family.
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