How Breed Does (And Doesn’t) Matter When Adopting a Dog

Most people have breeds of dogs that they know and love. Often, it is the dog's appearance that draws people to the breed. However, there's much more to choosing the right dog for your home than aesthetics.

Before you go all-in on a cute face on a website, take a moment to understand these important breed-related factors.

Size

Breed plays a significant role in how big a dog will get. This is important because size affects everything from the amount of food a dog will eat to how much space they'll need to thrive.

Researching the breed or breed mix of dog you are looking at, especially if you are getting a puppy, is critical. Many puppies are adopted because they are small and cute, but then they grow into large dogs that the adopter wasn't prepared for. This can lead to the dog being returned.

The best way to avoid this? Look at the breed or breed mix that the rescue or shelter has attributed to the puppy, then research how big those breeds get to make sure that the pup’s potential size will work for you later down the line.

In terms of how size fits into your lifestyle, do you want a dog that fits in your lap (and your carry-on)? Look at breeds or mixes like Chihuahuas or Pomeranians. Are you dreaming of a jogging partner or backyard guardian? Consider a Labrador or German Shepherd.

But keep in mind that not all big dogs need a ton of exercise, and not all small dogs are low-maintenance. That’s where temperament, energy levels, and what they were bred for come in.

Learn More: Does Size Really Matter When Adopting a Dog?

Temperament

Breed temperament can tell you a lot about a dog’s general behavior. Some breeds are naturally laid-back, like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, while others are independent, like Shiba Inus.

A dog's temperament should match your lifestyle and personality. If you want a dog that is ok with being alone while you are at work, a Shiba Inu might be a better match than a Labrador. Or, if you want a goofy dog, a Golden Retriever might be better for you than a German Shepherd.

Ask yourself: Do you want a dog that’s friendly with everyone they meet? Or are you ok with a pup who needs time to warm up? Would you prefer a clingy shadow or a more aloof companion?

What They Were Bred For

Dogs were originally bred for specific jobs. Whether it’s herding, guarding, hunting, retrieving, or ratting, many still have those instincts, even if they’ve never been on a farm or hunting trail.

Herding breeds (like Border Collies) might try to "herd" your kids. Scent hounds (like Beagles) might follow their nose right out the door. Terriers? Expect a lot of digging.

Researching a breed's intended purpose gives you valuable insight into a dog's natural behavior, allowing you to ensure the dog might fit into your home.

Energy Levels

Energy is another key thing to evaluate. A high-energy breed, like an Australian Shepherd, will need intense daily exercise and mental stimulation. Otherwise, they might chew up your couch or get into other kinds of trouble.

Lower-energy dogs, like Bulldogs or Basset Hounds, are more content with shorter walks and lots of naps.

Researching a breed's intended purpose gives you insight into energy levels so that you can verify the dog might be a good match for your home.

Grooming

All dogs need grooming, but some need it more than others.

Certain breeds shed a lot. Others require regular professional grooming to prevent their hair from becoming a tangled mess. Then, there are breeds like Poodles, who barely shed but need regular trims.

If you're not willing to commit to frequent brushing, vacuuming, or grooming appointments, research breeds with low-maintenance coats.

Learn More: What You Need To Know About Dog Grooming

Health

Some breeds are prone to health issues. For example, large breeds may face joint problems, while flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds like Pugs and Bulldogs often have breathing difficulties.

Some purebred dogs also have genetic issues that may shorten their lifespan or impact their quality of life. Remember that purebred does not always mean well-bred, even if you get your dog from a “reputable breeder.”

Research the common health concerns for the breeds you're interested in. Better yet, if you have a veterinarian you trust, ask them for advice. They can help you weigh risks and identify what to watch for.

Learn More: How To Choose a Veterinarian

A Word of Caution

As a rescue, we always encourage people to NOT bank on breed stereotypes or any breed experience they have. Many factors can contribute to a dog being different from the typical breed norms, and adopters need to be prepared for that.

Things that can cause a dog to not match the breed norms include:

• Age: Getting an older dog might mean the normal breed energy or temperament expectations aren’t as pronounced due to aging.

• Background: If the dog has had a traumatic background, it might impact the typical temperament you’d expect them to have.

• Breed mix: When dealing with mixed breeds, sometimes the traits of one breed might be more dominant than the other.

• Health: If a dog has health issues, it may not act in accordance with what you’d expect for its breed.

• Training: Lack of training can impact a dog’s temperament and how it leans (or doesn’t lean) into breed norms.

If you expect the dog you adopt to fully match the temperament and personality you associate with the breed, you’ll likely be disappointed in some way. As a result, it’s important to temper your expectations and respect the dog in front of you.

Learn More: The Truth About Hypoallergenic Dogs

Final Thoughts

Choosing a dog breed or a mixed breed is about more than looks. It's about compatibility. The best dog for you is the one whose needs match your lifestyle, not just your Instagram aesthetic.

Take your time. Do your homework. Talk to shelters, vets, and experts to make an educated decision about what dog would be best for your home.