Eastern Suburbs Dog Training Club

As an instructor, I’m often asked for advice on choosing a dog. A common misconception among prospective dog owners is that the main concern is matching a dog to your living area.

People who live in flats tell me they’re contem-plating a small dog. These dogs tend to be highly energetic and yappy. Not a good combination for flat dwellers and their neighbours.

Others with big backyards will say they’re think-ing of a larger dog. Left alone in the backyard, these dogs soon demonstrate how destructive a bored dog can be.

It’s lifestyle, not living area that should determine whether you buy a dog. Regardless of size, dogs need a lot of attention. In addition to regular exer-cise, play and training, dogs need a commitment that borders on monotony, but is vitally important for ensuring a settled, stress free dog.

People seem to forget that dogs live a long time. Playful puppies grow into wilful 2 year olds, ma-ture at 5 years and then slowly slide from middle-aged 8 year olds into elderly dogs of 12 to 14 years. Dogs are long term investments.

As with any investment, prospective dog owners should research their options beforehand. Visit a local dog club, watch how different dogs behave, listen to them and talk to their owners.
Above all, people should not buy a cute puppy or adopt a rescue dog unless they are fully prepared for the ongoing responsibility (and cost) of being a dog owner.

Because as my Harry who turns 10 on Xmas Eve reminds us, a dog is not just for Xmas. As responsible dog owners, please pass on this message to any family or friends considering buy-ing a dog this Xmas.

Robert Fairhead, Instructor, November 2008 (also published in Village Voice newspaper December 2007)