Should you choose a puppy just because he is cute and small?

One of the main problems that occur between the dog and its owner is compatibility. The owner might decide to get a specific breed of dog on a false pretense, usually based on what that specific breed looks like. The may decide to pick a certain type because of its muscular built, what the face looks like, or the type of coat. Later on, the owner realizes that his lifestyle and personality does not match with the dogs’ personality.

Keep in mind that most dogs were bred for a specific reason. The reason, more often than not, has to do with the skill to work. The attributes and instincts that best fit that working skill are still passed on through today due to the purebreds’ expected and set genes.

For example, a person who hates to groom picks a shaggy Old English Sheep dog; or someone who’s laid-back might pick a resolute Chow Chow.

If you work at your home, then you might want to think twice on getting a Norwegian Elk hound. This type of dog has in his genes to bark constantly when cornering a moose. Chances are he’ll bark incessantly at the slightest sight and sound. Maybe you should consider a quiet Mastiff instead.

If you love gardening, and thinking about owning a Fox Terrier, remember that this type of dog was bred to dig. So don’t be surprise if he starts digging in your flower beds. He can’t help it. It’s in his genes. Maybe look into getting a Pekingese instead.

You need to decide what type of dog fits into your personality and lifestyle, as well as attributes and personalities of the dog. This is done by evaluating certain factors. Below are two factors to consider.

Size: Most people think that small dogs are either more cuddly or easily snaps compared to large dogs. They may also think that large dogs are more protective or friendly compare to small dogs. These aren’t necessarily true. All types of personalities can be found with all sizes of dog breed.

Experience: You have to determine your experience on owning a dog. Do you think you are prepared to own a breed that is more tough and aggressive? Some breeds of dogs are better suited for experienced owners while other breeds are more appropriate for novice owners.

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Don’t punish your puppies! Discipline them

There is simply no right way of punishing young puppies. You just don’t do it. Punishing your puppy is not a good start to having a loving relationship with them. Puppies are just like human babies and they do not understand acts of punishment. Punishing your puppies only gives them the impression that you do not like them, which in turn causes them to be shy or unresponsive toward you.

Striking your puppy with a rolled up newspaper, or even worse, spanking him with your hand is a very cruel act and should not be done, for whichever type of misbehavior he shows. Although it may seem to work on short term – your puppy stops what he’s doing (his bad behavior) and appears to be sorry for his actions, punishing your puppy could result to a long term repercussion.

At worst, your puppy builds up a defense mechanism wall that might keep you from having that special bond with him. This wall could also result in your puppy's complete loss of trust and confidence in you. Minimally, you may have a hard time communicating with him as he gets older, which could affect your training and your dog’s listening ability.

Another form of punishment is shouting: mad, loud, and poignant shouting. A loud and mean tone of your voice can send an impulse of fear to your tender puppy. If your pup has a personality of a rather stubbornness or dominance type, he will most likely turn indifferent to you.

Sure, puppies do need discipline sometimes. They need to know things that they are not supposed to be doing. They need to learn how to behave correctly, with family as well as strangers. Your attitude plays a very important role in disciplining your puppy. And above any kind of way to discipline your young dog, it is very important that he knows that you love him.

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