There are many reasons we seek out and buy specific dog breeds. Some of these reasons include size, temperament, behaviours and many more. It’s true many breeds have stereotypes that can match our preferences and lifestyles, however it’s important to also remember that dogs are individuals. Despite some of these stereotypes, they have their own personalities and march to the beat of their own drum. Though this may seem like an obvious notion, it’s interesting to really look into the topic and view social reactions to specific breeds.

The business we are in allows us to see dogs of many shapes and sizes. Thanks to you, our clients, we have the pleasure of enjoying many different breeds and mixed breeds. It’s truly fascinating getting to know them as individuals and as they relate to their stereotypes.

Firstly, referring to a breed as having one behaviour is simply not fair to the individual dog. Though they may have similarities, these behaviours can change simply by the breeders choice. Breeders can look for physical attributes they like in their line, but they can also look at behavioural attributes. One breeder to another may have completely different tempered dogs depending on their preferences. This is important to seek out when looking to buy a puppy. How are the temperaments of the puppy’s parents and their parents before them? Meet other dogs in the line and see how they act, are they extremely playful? Are they docile? Then look at the individual puppies themselves, after all, they each have their own personality.

The point is not to judge a book by it’s cover, even when passing a dog on the street. It’s one thing to look into these stereotypes when looking to buy a puppy, but try to remember these points when passing strange dogs as well. They are individuals, and deserve to get the benefit of the doubt. Try looking instead into body language. Of course not every dog is going to be friendly, but they will give you signs not to approach.

We’ll approach that topic next week!