Choosing the Right Dog
Owning a dog is one of life’s great joys — but it’s also a long-term commitment. A dog will shape your life for the next 10–15 years, through different stages and seasons. “Friday” the Staffie when you were ten was a very different experience to “Chardy” the Bull Terrier in your twenties — and both left a lasting mark.
That’s why choosing the right dog for your lifestyle, home, and personality is such an important decision. At Pittwater Animal Hospital, we’re here to guide you from the start.
📧 Email: reception@pittvets.au
Getting a Puppy
Puppies can come from registered breeders, private homes, pet shops, or rescue organisations. Wherever your puppy is from, choose one that is healthy, confident, and well-adjusted.
Book a free Puppy Health Check with us as soon as you bring your new pup home. We’ll give them a thorough examination and provide expert advice on vaccination, feeding, training, parasite control, and more.
Enrolling in Puppy School early is the best way to start training and socialisation.
Adopting an Adult Dog
Adult dogs from welfare organisations or breed-specific rescues can make wonderful companions — loyal, loving, and eager to please.
However, some are surrendered due to behavioural issues. Separation anxiety and reactivity are common, so it’s important to understand the dog’s history and temperament. We’re happy to provide guidance.
One Dog or Two?
One Happy Dog
If you have the time and energy for daily walks, play, and care, one dog can thrive as your loyal companion.
Two Puppies
Raising two pups at once is twice the work and they may bond more closely to each other than to you. Socialisation takes extra effort.
Old Dog Trains the New Dog
A puppy can bring new life to a senior dog’s world. Just keep in mind the age gap and your older dog’s comfort.
A Companion for a Lonely Dog?
This can work, but not always. If your dog has behavioural issues like separation anxiety, a second dog might join in rather than help.
What Type of Dog is Right for You?
Size
Consider your home, lifestyle, and mobility. Small dogs can be highly energetic; large dogs can be calm but may struggle with stairs or slippery floors as they age.
Hair Type & Grooming
🐾 Low-Shedding / “Hypoallergenic”
Poodle crosses (Cavoodle, Spoodle, Moodle, Groodle) shed less hair but require grooming every 6–8 weeks. Early exposure to grooming is essential.
🐾 Double-Coated Breeds
Golden Retrievers, Border Collies, and Huskies shed heavily. They need regular brushing and should not be clipped.
🐾 Short-Coated Breeds
Staffies, Boxers, Pugs, Beagles, and Dalmatians shed year-round. Regular brushing helps manage hair.
Neville having his hair cut.
🐾 Long & Silky Coats
Maltese, Shih Tzus, and Afghan Hounds require daily brushing and regular grooming. Mats can cause skin infections.
🐾 Wire-Coated Breeds
Schnauzers and Fox Terriers may need hand-stripping or regular trims to maintain coat texture.
Grooming tips:
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Start young so grooming is accepted
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Brush, bathe, and check ears regularly
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Budget for ongoing professional grooming
Temperament
A dog’s temperament is as important as its size or coat type. While breed tendencies are a guide, the individual dog’s personality will shape your life together.
🐾 Confident & Calm – Adaptable, relaxed, easier to train.
🐾 Nervous or Anxious – May need extra socialisation and patience.
🐾 High-Energy & Driven – Need a job or activity to stay happy.
🐾 Independent or Aloof – Reserved but loyal; may suit quieter homes.
🐾 Friendly & Sociable – Love attention and people.
🐾 Strong-Willed – Need consistent, positive training.
Good early experiences, stable environments, and positive reinforcement all help shape a dog’s behaviour. Our vet team and local trainers — Veronica from Canine Concepts and Lisa & Kat from K9 Connection on 0418 188 804 — can support you.
Activity Level
Working breeds and terriers often need daily training and enrichment. Lap dogs like Cavaliers or Schnauzers may suit quieter homes. Every dog is an individual — even calm breeds can surprise you.
Support After You Choose
At Pittwater Animal Hospital, we offer:
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Expert Vaccination & Parasite Control Advice
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Puppy School with Canine Concepts
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Behaviour Support from K9 Connection
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Desexing, Microchipping & Health Plans
Make an Appointment with the Vet →
Call us on 9913 7979
Or email reception@pittvets.au
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