In 2019 and 2020 there has been a recent upsurge of dog breeds hitting homes for various reasons such as companionship, the COVID-19 pandemic which has forced many of us to stay at home and work from our home offices, or just because we have children and would like them to grow up with pets and learn how to love them. Whatever the reasons for people adopting pets, they are all well worth the effort.
Having pets in the house changes things, it brings happiness, activity, and joy to most homes and when kept well they can live for many years. So, what are the most kept dogs in many homes all around the world? We take a look at 3 breeds.
Image by Nikki Luijpers
Labrador Retriever
Perhaps because this guy is one of the sturdiest dogs around, or maybe it’s because they are friendly, and playful, that many pet owners are drawn to them. Standing at 24 inches they can weigh anything till 80 pounds strong and have a dense coat, almost waterproof in most breeds. They come in three lovely hues, namely chocolate brown, black, and an ivory cream tine.
If not for anything, they bond with everyone in the family, even strangers that visit. They don’t fight much and get along well with other breeds and your neighbor’s dog too. One thing they do have is a lot is energy, so if you’re into activities and want one to keep you company in your explorations and outdoor adventures, take him along with you and he will enjoy it just as much as you do. It will keep both of you mentally and physically fit.
In terms of their nutritional needs and food, any high-quality organic food that is as close to nature as possible will do best with them. Treats are an important training aid for them so make sure to always keep them handy in your pocket or a bag somewhere nearby.
They may be some human foods that are safe for them, what you can give them includes items such as plain bread, cashews cheese, coconut, corn, eggs (fully cooked), fish, ham, honey, milk, peanuts and peanut butter, pork, quinoa and popcorn, and for the unsafe foods, check out this guide here.
German Shepherd Dogs
They can grow as tall as 26 inches and are beautifully created with smooth, graceful curves. There are so many reasons, to begin with as to why they make the best pets but we will narrow it down to just a few. 3 words – loyal, confident, and courageous. This is why they make excellent guard dogs and are used in the police force as sniffers and guard dogs.
They are great at learning commands and are so loyal, they will put their own life on the line for you. If you have kids they are amazing with them too and are gentle and steadfast at guarding little ones at all times.
Avoid giving them table scraps (they are better than that), as these will harm their digestive systems. Treats are a good idea when training them and giving them commands, something like kibbles or chewy treats such as those mentioned here can also be great motivators and add to their 5-a day nutritional value-add: https://www.holistapet.com/ any superior food including fruits and vegetables is also good for them.
In general, they are healthy dogs but can sometimes suffer from degenerative conditions like hip dysplasia. A routine evaluation at the vets is recommended for them.
French Bulldog
The French version of the Bulldog is much smaller, almost miniature with large erect ears and a large square head. They have wrinkles on his short nose and short legs covered by a silky coat of smooth hair. They feel compact and muscular when carried and played with. Because they can be rounded, it is easy for them to roll right over and struggle to get up sometimes.
These are quiet dogs and do not bark much. They do make excellent watchdogs though, so when somethings up you will hear them. They can make great companions to just about any lifestyle or home, if your single, a couple, or a family with kids, they can adapt to any space.
They also get on well with existing pets in the home and do not have much activity needs, although if you take them out once a day it will be good for both of you. Due to them being prone to obesity it is fundamental that you never overfeed them and give them only high-quality foods.
If giving him treats, make sure it is done in moderation. Also, it is important to note that they have short legs so they cannot swim, and should never be left unattended near water bodies such as swimming pools or ponds.
As with all dogs you adopt, a regular check-up at the vet is always advisable. Observing them every day is also a good habit to have, and if you see anything “off” take them to the vet immediately.
