Introduction1) Will this be your first dog? If not, what experience do you have owning/training dogs?This will be my first time owning a dog, but I've lived with good friends who own a Dalmatian. We got him as a puppy and raised him more or less together (it's their dog, but I participated actively), so I understand a lot of the basics and know what to expect from a breed that's more demanding than average2) Do you have a preference for rescuing a dog vs. going through a reputable breeder?I'd prefer a breeder3) Describe your ideal dog.A dog that's more independent but that still enjoys company (one that likes to hang out with me in the same room, not one that's too needy), that can stay alone for a while and that isn't overly destructive or energetic. I'd love a quiet, well-behaved dog who I can spend time with when I'm not working :)4) What breeds or types of dogs are you interested in and why?I've always loved the look of Spitz breeds - anything wolf-like really catches my eye, though they tend to have high exercise needs which I know I might not be able to fulfil depending on the breed.Chows look like a potential fit to me, although there are obvious cons. Shiba Inu is another option that I'm interested in, but I'm unsure about exercise needs + they're mischievous from what I've read. Finally, Eurasiers seem like the best fit personality-wise, but idk if they deal well with being alone :/5) What sorts of things would you like to train your dog to do?I just want a generally well-behaved dog who knows the basic commands any dog needs to know. I'm not looking to do much agility training unless needed and I'm not interested in any sort of competitionCare Commitments6) How long do you want to devote to training, playing with, or otherwise interacting with your dog each day?Early on I'm obviously happy to spend as much time as necessary training and playing with a young dog/puppy. Once adulthood hits, I'd be able to devote 1-2ish hours consistently7) How long can you exercise your dog each day, on average? What sorts of exercise are you planning to give your dog regularly and does that include using a dog park?About an hour of walking max, add playing in the backyard and parks/dog parks (depending on the breed) when time allows8) How much regular brushing are you willing to do? Are you open to trimming hair, cleaning ears, or doing other grooming at home? If not, would you be willing to pay a professional to do it regularly?Willing to do what's necessary for my dog's well-being, no limitsPersonal Preferences9) What size dog are you looking for?A medium sized dog :)10) How much shedding, barking, and slobber can you handle?As little barking and slobber as possible (especially slobber), shedding isn't ideal but I can deal with vacuuming a couple of times a week and brushing regularly11) How important is being able to let your dog off-leash in an unfenced area?Not important to meDog Personality and Behavior12) Do you want a snuggly dog or one that prefers some personal space?One that prefers personal space - as mentioned earlier, an ideal dog is one that enjoys proximity to me without being too needy13) Would you prefer a dog that wants to do its own thing or one that’s more eager-to-please?A balanced approach would be best for me - I'm obviously interested in a dog that's more independent, but not so much it has a mind of its own14) How would you prefer your dog to respond to someone knocking on the door or entering your yard? How would you prefer your dog to greet strangers or visitors?No barking or jumping all over people - a more reserved dog is preferable15) Are you willing to manage a dog that is aggressive to other dogs?This isn't something I've had much experience with, so I'm a bit uncomfortable with it but this is something I'd be willing to deal with as long as I can learn what to do16) Are there any other behaviors you can’t deal with or want to avoid?Jumping on people, excessive chewing, barking/howling/making excessive amounts of noise especially when I'm awayLifestyle17) How often and how long will the dog be left alone?I work a 9-5 job at government, so it's a pretty consistent schedule. The dog will be left alone 8 hours per day - this is why I need a more independent/less needy breed. I'll make allowances at work so that I can come home early in the dog's life for potty etc18) What are the dog-related preferences of other people in the house and what will be their involvement in caring for the dog?Living alone when I get dog19) Do you have other pets or are you planning on having other pets? What breed or type of animal are they?No20) Will the dog be interacting with children regularly?No, though I hope to socialize given that since I'm 25, I may very well have kids in the dog's lifetime21) Do you rent or plan to rent in the future? If applicable, what breed or weight restrictions are on your current lease?Renting - no issues with pets22) What city or country do you live in and are you aware of any laws banning certain breeds?Ottawa, Canada - ban on pitbulls, that's it23) What is the average temperature of a typical summer and winter day where you live?Avg. about 25°C in the summer, can definitely climb into the 30s a few days a year. In the winter, avg. is about -15°C I'd say, with some days in the -30sAdditional Information and Questions24) Please provide any additional information you feel may be relevant.I'm interested in getting a dog to have a loyal companion - we had a couple of cats when I was young and in helping my roommates raise their dog, it's something I've fallen in love with. I'm committed to providing an environment where a dog can thrive and be happy :)25) Feel free to ask any questions below.Are any of the breeds I mentioned above a potential fit? Based on my research they could be, but I've also found a lot of conflicting info. I'm hoping someone with more experience than me can help me in identifying the right breed :) thanks so much!! via /r/dogs http://ift.tt/2s7CQhi
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