Some Ways to Ensure You Get the Pick of the Litter

Choosing a dog is like choosing a roommate. By boning up on the physical and temperamental characteristics of various breeds, owners can narrow down the choices to those that best fit their personalities and lifestyles.

Will the dog be good with young children? Certain hardy, mellow breeds such as the golden retriever and Labrador retriever are widely regarded as excellent family pets, while breeds such as the Pekingese and Yorkshire terrier are considered too snappish around youngsters.

Will you have time to exercise the dog properly? Weimaraners and Dalmatians require a great deal of exercise, while others such as basset hounds and Newfoundlands are more lethargic. Are you looking for a watchdog? Rottweilers and German shepherds make classic guard dogs.

If you are having trouble telling a Shih Tzu from a Lhasa apso or a Welsh springer spaniel from an English springer spaniel, there are many good resources. Breeders, trainers and veterinarians can provide valuable, breed-specific information; dog shows are an excellent way to see various breeds in action. Or unleash yourself at the pet section of a library or bookstore. Here is a sampling of canine resources:

“The Perfect Puppy: How to Choose Your Dog by Its Behavior,” Benjamin L. Hart, DVM, and Lynette Hart; W.H. Freeman and Co., 1988. Ranks 56 breeds according to behavioral traits of concern to owners.

“The Right Dog for You,” Daniel F. Tortora; Simon & Schuster, 1980. Provides a systematic approach to choosing a compatible dog.

Pedigree Selectadog. To find out which breeds are best suited for a particular lifestyle, send for a questionnaire to 3250 E. 44th St., Vernon, Calif. 90058.

American Kennel Club offers the “Complete Dog Book” and a videotape series on breeds from the sporting, hound, working, terrier, toy, non-sporting and herding groups. AKC Customer Service Department, 5580 Centerview Drive, Raleigh, N.C. 27606; (919) 233-9780.