Of course, consistency of behavior comes into question if you adopt a mixed breed dog or a rescue that is a combination of multiple breeds. In fact, Rover, the world’s largest online marketplace for pet care, surveyed its users last year and found that 60 percent of pet parents have mixed breed dogs. Rover’s insights show that the most important thing people look for in a breed is family friendliness, followed by how cuddly, loyal and intelligent a breed is.
While these qualities are important, it’s good to consider Burgess’s points above as well. Also, dogs are individuals. Breed characteristics can certainly prepare you for the new pet in your life, but your role in their behavior cannot be underestimated.
“One of the things that can help with unwanted behavioral patterns is to make sure your dog gets enough mental and physical exercise,” says Burgess. “A tired dog is a better behaved one, even if the circumstances are not ideal for them.”
The bottom line is that choosing a dog breed is an important step—don’t take it lightly. “Doing your homework is essential to your and your dog’s future success,” says Burgess.
