WHAT IS THE INTENDED PURPOSE OF THE DOG?

The reason for actually buying a dog varies considerably. The duties of a dog, as we have mentioned previously, cover many and varied situations.

  This can be depending on whether they are considered as pets and show dogs, guard and protection, working (i.e. in the field'), obedience and agility. Many breeds cross over and cover several fields.

  It is important to get your priorities right when selecting a dog. Do you want the dog as a child's pet, a friend for the children to grow up with and not be eaten by, or an all-round pet/guard dog? If you want to do serious obedience training, do not pick a dog that loves to wander or one that cannot concentrate for more than five minutes.

  Show dog are chosen for looks and type first but, unfortunately temperament and soundness are often overlooked. Working dog, including obedience, agility, armed forces herding, guard etc. - are selected primarily for temperament, next for soundness and lastly, looks.

  Ideally, good temperament, soundness and type for the purposes for which the dogs were bred should be present in the puppy, which you buy. The average person would be happy with the first two.

Information contained from - "The New Dog Owner's Manual" - Written by Dr Karen Hedberg