Getting a new pet can be exciting, but it's not a decision to enter into lightly. There are a lot of things to take into consideration when finding the best pet for you. It's especially true when you're getting a dog. Different breeds of dogs have different requirements as far as physical activity, medical needs, and more.
Rover is hoping to make that decision easier on prospective pet owners. The same pet care company that helps match owners with boarding facilities, walkers, and overnight care has released a new tool that takes into consideration knowledge of specific animal behavior and data about your lifestyle. It combines the information to determine which breed of dog is the right one for you based on what your day-to-day life is like. The tool was developed with the help of certified dog trainer Nicole Ellis, as well as staffers from the Humane Society of Greater Kansas City.
Everyone gets excited at the prospect of getting a new dog. It's not a decision to be taken lightly, of course. Bringing a new dog into a household has to be considered just like adding any other new member of the family. The dog's needs and the rest of the family's lifestyle should be taken into account.
Even when you have an idea of the kind of dog you're looking for, it can be hard to settle on a breed. Thankfully, Rover has created a new tool that helps prospective pet parents figure out which kind of dog would be best for them.
The Dog Breed Selector was developed with the help of certified dog trainer Nicole Ellis and the staff at the Humane Society of Greater Kansas City. The team worked at developing the animal behavior data that the tool utilizes.
That information is analyzed against the top 50 of Rover's list of America's Most Popular Dog Breeds. The tool begins by asking you for some information about your lifestyle to help determine the best breed for you.
The questions give insight into the different needs that different breeds have. It asks about how active you're interested in being with the dog, for example, which can make the difference between getting a cuddler or a runner.
It also asks about how much space there is in your home, whether you've ever had a dog before, and other useful information that should inform your decision. It goes to show just how much thought should go into making that kind of decision.
In the end, you're given the top three breeds that would be right for you based on the information provided and the animal behavior data. It sets you on track to finding the perfect animal that fits into your lifestyle.
"Regardless of size, color, or personality, bringing a dog home and welcoming them into your family is one of the most enjoyable and rewarding experiences in life," said Bill Kong, the chief marketing officer of Rover in a press release.
"Every dog has an abundance of unconditional love to offer. However, depending on one’s living situation, lifestyle, and budget, some prospective pet parents are looking for specific traits," he explained.
"Fortunately, there’s a dog for everyone and every home whether you choose to adopt or shop," he concluded. Certainly, this tool can be super helpful for new owners in particular by providing valuable guidance based on facts.
“While different breeds possess inherent characteristics, tendencies, and needs, every dog has the potential to be your new best friend,” said Nicole Ellis on Rover’s Dog People Panel. Nicole has experience with all kinds of animals, from cats and dogs to bears and tigers.
"Whether taking your new furry family member on a walk or meeting dogs at the park, getting your dog started on an exercise, socialization, and training regimen as soon as possible helps establish a strong bond between you and your dog while also ensuring that they’re confident and happy in their new life with you," she added.
As for the top breeds on Rover's list, the answers may surprise you. Mixed breed pups ranked No. 1, Labrador retrievers were second, Chihuahuas were third, golden retrievers were fourth, and German shepherds placed fifth.
Thanks to Rover, prospective dog owners can rest easy knowing that they have some guidance in making the decision to add to their family. Whether you get a pocket-sized pooch or a big, brave dog, it's essential to get it right when choosing a friend for life.
