Choosing a new puppy/ dog is often a heart led decision.
Sometimes this works just fine. Often it doesn't.
There will always be challenges with any new pet, but a thoughtful decision can keep the challenges more predictable and manageable.
If you want to save a dog's life, make sure the rescue dog you choose will fit into your life well.
If you want a puppy from a breeder, choose a suitable breed and a reputable breeder.
It's not 'all in how they're reared'. Rearing absolutely matters, but genetics matter too.
To choose your breed/s, research their likely sociability, instinctive behaviours, energy levels, size, health issues, coat maintenance etc.
Once you've narrowed the field, start looking for breeders with the type of dogs that will suit, or look at what rescues have available.
While breed is a good place to start, individuals within breeds differ. You also want to think about whether you'd prefer a male or female.
All breeds have a continuum of variety e.g. small to large, less sociable to more sociable, shorter coat to longer coat, less anxious to more anxious, less healthy to more healthy, sounder conformation to less sound conformation etc.
So, start with breed, then find the individuals within that breed that suit you. Choose from them.
Once your head has done the research, then let your heart choose the individual.
Pictured is a Labrador. This is a breed who typically love water and carrying things in their mouths. (Genetics matter.)
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