Know the Breed Well
Before you add a dog to your family, take a look at both the breed's ancestral occupation and it's occupation today. As dog trainers, far too often Liz, Petra and Kate see frustrated owners and unhappy dogs because the dog's breed (or its occupation) didn't fit in with that particular family's lifestyle. As Liz explains, "I have active herding dogs who want to be on the go and do something because I like that. But if a family is looking for a more laid back dog, my breeds of choice would be extremely frustrating to them."