Whether you select a purebred or a mixed breed, a puppy or older, longhaired or shorthaired, small or large, most important to consider is love and commitment.
Getting a dog is a serious commitment. There is much information out there to help with choosing the right dog. There are many things to consider such as purebred or mixed breed, puppy or older, longhaired or shorthaired, small or large, energetic or laid back, and so on.
There is something quite sensible about choosing a dog in the same way one would choose a new car or a microwave yet the greatest love stories seem to be the ones that tell of the old dog who just wandered up one day and stayed. Or the mutt left behind by a neighbor, or the puppy found begging for food in a convenience store parking lot.
Perhaps falling in love with a dog is more about the person than the dog. Those who have no preconceived notions that the dog should look like Benji or act like Lassie may be more open to accepting a dog for who he really is.
Love Is in the Eye of the Beholder
The most wonderful dogs may not be perfect dogs. They just have owners whose eyes see only their beauty and not their flaws. They have owners who are capable of, and committed to, a rewarding relationship with a pet.
In the rescue world, the term ‘unadoptable’ is sometimes applied to aging dogs or handicapped dogs or dogs with behavioral differences. Yet, every one is lovable in his own way. He may just have to wait a little longer until someone comes along with the right eyes to see his beauty. Sometimes these are the people who find that their heart is even bigger than their home.
Often, when a person loses a beloved pet they decide they must have another who is exactly the same. They set out to find the exact replica of the most wonderful dog in the world. This is indeed sad because it’s impossible. How is it that their dog was the most wonderful in the world? Because they loved him.
Accepting Each Dog for Who He Is
Each dog is an individual. While certain breeds will have certain characteristics, each dog is unique. One German Shepherd may be brave and laid back and another may be clownish and energetic. One Cocker Spaniel mix may be sweet and loving while another may prefer playing ball over cuddling. One Schnoodle may love riding in the car and another, sunning on the deck.
When pet owners can reject any preconceived notions and open their heart to love another dog for who he is, that dog will become the most wonderful dog in the world too. Simply, love cannot be replaced but it can be added to.
Certainly, practical choices should be considered when choosing a dog but love and commitment should not be forgotten. The greatest love story is when that little pup looks up at you with adoring eyes, offers unconditional love and a heartbeat that answers your own.
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