PEDIGREE: Select-a-dog

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.

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.

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. This 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.

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.

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.

6. 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.

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!

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, however 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.

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! There are some that might be more of a problem, so take care when selecting the best breed for your situation.

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.

11. How energetic should your dog be?

  Quiet
  Moderate
  Lively
  Very Energetic

How important is this feature to me?

Extremely ImportantVery ImportantAverageLess 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! Make sure you can cope with the dog's exercise needs for life.

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 ImportantVery ImportantAverageLess 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. There are other considerations, particularly the size of your home and garden and the amount of exercise you can give your dog each day.

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 ImportantVery ImportantAverageLess 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. Make sure you can afford to feed your dog properly.

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 ImportantVery ImportantAverageLess 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.

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.

16. Do you want a dog that will protect your property?

  No
  Bark warnings
  Defend property

How important is this feature to me?

Extremely ImportantVery ImportantAverageLess 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!

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.