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The Purebred
One of the key functions of a kennel club is to maintain the records of lineage of individual purebreds in order to preserve breed standards for dogs. A purebred is one that conforms to the standards of a certain breed and whose lineage, or pedigree, has been recorded.

Mixed Breeds
Clubs nor associations keep records on mixed breed pets. Standards would not be monitored. A mixed breed dog can be a combination of two or more breeds. These can sometimes make the best pet as they are mildly tempered and faithful loving companions.

Pet Selection Check List

Questions to ask yourself	Resources & Remedies
Do you travel often? If so, who will care for the pet? Or will you allow them to travel with you?	Check out our links sections for Traveling with Pets
Can you interact with the pet at lease two times a day?	Pets are social creatures, they want your attention. Spend a few moments before work, and then again when you get home. Pet, play or go for a walk.
Are you prepared for unexpected expenses if the pet gets sick?	Check out our Pet Health section for details about day to day pet health issues.
Can you afford everyday costs for such as: worming, vaccinations and spay/neutering?	Take a look at our Pet Budget to make sure.
Is shedding a big deal?	Long Haired myth. Not to say that long haired dogs do not shed-they do. But that is not the criteria to use in determining whether or not they will shed. Many times a short haired dog will shed more than a long haired dog. However more brushing and washing is required to keep a long haired dog groomed.
Do you have a place for the pet to exercise? If not your place, available Dog Parks?	If you do not have a fenced yard, then you should consider this expense when selecting your pet. And then keeping them entertained while they are outside is important, especially if they are left alone outside while you are at work. For fence quotes and Pet Playground ideas check out these links.
Am I knowledgeable about housetraining and basic commands? Or will I need to enroll us both in obedience training?	If you have 20 minutes to spend with your new pet each day to train and house break, if you like to read & if you have patience then you are a perfect candidate for self training. Check out Pet Publications for guidance. If not, then you might want to consider attending a pet obedience class. Usually last around 6 weeks and cost averages about 80. Check out our Pet Services for local resources.
Do you have lots of visitors & will the pet be trustworthy and friendly?	If you have lots of visitors, an aggressive breed may not be the perfect selection for your family. Check out Choosing a Dog first.
Do you have children that need to bond with your new pet?	There are many breeds that are kid friendly. If you have children or are planning on having children in the future it is best to pick a pet that is suitable for this home situation. Our pet breed selector will note the breeds that are known for being good with kids.
Do you already have a pet that will need to bond with your new pet?	It is essential to prepare them both to bond and accept each other. Take all toys away initially and then re-introduce them by providing a new toy for each pet. Allow them to play with supervision at first in case they fight over the toy. Additionally, do not introduce bones until they have accepted each other. Bones will cause an intense battle ground. Cats & dogs or birds & cats will need additional care.
Will the pet be predominantly indoors or out? Or a combination of both?	You will need to prepare the space regardless of whether your pet will stay indoors or outdoors. If outdoors, your pet will need cover from the elements. Fencing would be the most important thing to install if you are going to keep them outside.

Questions about the pet	Resources & Remedies
How big will I get?	Each breed usually has a low to high range for height and weight, so if this is an important characteristic, make sure you take this into consideration.
Am I the quiet, sleepy type or energetic?	If your lifestyle is very active, make sure you do not select a quite resting breed. Likewise, if you do not have an active lifestyle, don't go out and get a retriever or pointer as these breeds are bred to do just that.....retrieve and hunt.
How much do I eat?	Dogs can eat from 1-5 cups per day. For budget and size reasons, this would be a good thing to make sure you are comfortable with when selecting the right pet for you and your family.
Am I an aggressive chewer?	Australian sheppards are none for being aggressive chewers. Which is ok, you don't have to throw out your shoes. Just make sure that you keep plenty of raw hide and chew toys available if you select an aggressive chewing breed.
Do I have special genetic problems?	Some breeds tend to carry genetic problems. Which is ok as long as you are prepared for it and know what to do for you pet.
Will I need professional grooming?	For example the Chitzu is a high maintenance grooming breed. The fur is long and needs extensive brushing and the eyes are known for tearing which can cause discoloration and discomfort if not attended to.
Will I have my own house or live inside with my guardians?	If you will be keeping your pet outside. Make sure that you provide some type of pet house and proper fencing to keep your pet safe and comfortable.
Will I be interacting with a lot of strangers or little children?	If you have children, be sure to check that the breed you are selecting is kid friendly. Many breeds love kids, while others tend to fair better with adults.
Will I be tracking dirt and sand into the house?	If adopting a new pet, this is not the time to install new carpet throughout the house. Tile, vinyl and hardwood floors are ideal for the inside pet owners. If you do have carpet be prepared to clean paws before re-entry and invest in a carpet shampooing unit.
How do I deal with climate?	If you live in extreme hot or cold climates, you will need to take this into consideration when preparing a home for your pet. Outdoor pets will need adequate shade, shelter and plenty of water.

Selecting Pets

Choosing a Dog

Pet Selection Check List