There are basically the following types of domesticated dog breeds to choose from.
Working – Boxer,
Sporting – Retriever, Pointer, Spaniel
Hound – Hound
Toy – toy poodle
Terrier – Schnauzer, Samoyd
Non-sporty: Dalmatian, Poodle
Herding – Collie, German Shepherd
The most popular breeds for domestication come from sporting, non-sporting, or herding breeds. Here are some tips:
1. American Kennel Association lists each breed type by temperament and behavioral traits. For example, Terriers are energetic pets. Working breeds must be specially trained to become domestic companions that the whole family can adopt. You must study each of the races and then decide which is the best for you. Within the breed, each type of dog has its own unique characteristics and you should focus on these as well in deciding which type of dog is most compatible with your children and your family.
2. Once you’ve done your research, it may be a good idea to speak with a trainer, which may be one who specializes in the particular breed. He or she will be experienced in what will be best for you. Questions to ask are: temperament, experience with your family type, level of maintenance (for example, certain mountain work breeds require a lot of exercise and cannot handle a warm room or very humid climate), ideal age to be the dog, level of obedience (again, certain breeds are very difficult to train) and diet.
3. A dog is part of your family. Many people just go and buy one from the local pound. It’s an excellent idea, but don’t get a dog, do your homework.
4. Once you have the dog, or if you can before, have the dog or puppy checked by a vet for illnesses, allergies, etc.
5. While owning a dog can be fun, it also requires commitment. People who live in cold climates will appreciate that early in the morning, snow or shine, they have to take the dog for a walk.
6. This may sound harsh, but don’t buy a dog just because you want to please your children. They usually want all the fun, but no dog-related work. So it will be you who will have to feed, brush, walk and train the dog. Children will accept anything to get a dog, but they rarely keep their promises. Don’t be fooled or get emotionally involved with the idea of having a dog or the wrong type of dog.
7. Do not allow your dog to be overweight. Feeding table scraps is not good, and continually feeding them is fatal, it will ruin their digestive system and deprive them of nutrients because canine food processing is very different from human processing.
8. Above all, a dog is a selfless animal. Treat it with love and patience. Don’t take your pet’s marital or office problems away. The old saying “I have to go home to kick my dog” is just one way of speaking. Don’t follow him or your dog will turn hostile and make life miserable for both of you.
Good luck.