Back in the day, I was a member of a Schutzhund club, a niche sport based on police dog drills. The dogs are very highly trained and choosing the right one is important.
The serious competitors all had German Shepherds and some could identify another dog’s parentage just by their behaviour. I had daft-as-a-brush Rottweilers. We had fun, learned a lot and won nothing. (I’d have had more chance entering an old Land Rover in Formula 1.)
One day, someone was talking a good talk about an eight-week-old German Shepherd he’d been to see: behavioural tests he’d carried out, breeding lines and how this puppy was a dead-cert for champion.
After he’d gone, I asked the head trainer about his prediction. “He’s a better man than me,” he said, with a wry smile. “If he can predict dog behaviour this early, good luck to him. I’ve owned 30 German Shepherds and seen hundreds of puppies. The more I see, the less confident I am.”
Beyond those puppy eyes
While no one can guarantee a prize performer, you can stack the odds in favour of picking the perfect companion by choosing the right breed, breeder (if you’re going that route rather than a rescue) and individual for you. Whether you want a working dog or a loving pet, doing your homework is key.
You may have always wanted a Border Collie, but is a physically and mentally hyperactive dog the best match if you work 14-hour days or live in a flat? Or do you really want a black dog that sheds if you’re houseproud and have white carpets?
Dogs Trust has plenty of information, breed guides and even a quiz to help you find the right one for you. Don’t choose for looks, but for energy levels and personality.
It’s not just the dog on trial
If you’re going for a breeder rather than a rescue, look at their website and socials. Are they talking first about selecting for health and temperament or just appearance and show success? I’m more impressed by care taken to create happy, balanced, healthy dogs than rosettes on the wall (although the two things can, and should, go together).
When you visit a breeder or rescue, ask about health and personality, but also expect to answer questions. If it feels like you’re being interviewed for the post of dog owner, you are. It’s a good thing they’re checking your suitability. Be honest about your lifestyle and circumstances at home.
Trust the experts to matchmake
You’ve been honest about your situation, so why not let the breeder or rescue decide for you? It’s a leap of faith, but how likely is it that you’ll choose the best match in a couple of snapshot-in-time visits?
The people caring for the dogs are with them 24/7. They know their dogs and they know about you. Who better to choose? You’re not guaranteed perfection, but you’ll give yourself the best chance.
Graeme appears in Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly on Channel 5. Follow him on Instagram. His latest book, Does My Dog Love Me?, is on sale now.
