Dogs, by nature, are born to be active. So if you're a couch potato addicted to the TV, having a dog might not be the way to go. A dog is more likely to feel depressed if he is taken home by an owner who has a different lifestyle, creating discord in the relationship.

Bringing a dog into your home requires careful thought about the physical activity level needed to keep him physically and emotionally healthy. Having a dog that needs walking twice daily could spur lazy adults to get the kind of physical exercise that they need. However, lazy individuals are not likely to change their ways enough to make a good fit between them and active dogs. It's the dog that will suffer as the lazy keeper slacks off on walking and the dog fails to get what he needs in consistent outdoor time.

The amount and kind of exercise that you give to your dog is not the same as giving him the quantity of physical activity that he needs every day. Every dog needs time to walk, run, play and relax each day. Go to a dog park or walk your dog on a leash in the neighborhood. A home with a fenced yard is a good place for your dog to run around and play freely without being controlled on a lead. Mobility limitations can often be a problem for older adults. If this is the case, picking a dog that requires less daily physical activity is a wiser choice. Active dogs may find individuals who like to go outside to have fun to be ideal owners for them.

Larger dogs tend to be more physically active. Many larger dogs have heritages that include being working or hunting dogs. Their innate desire is to be active. Dogs which are born for movement and agility may include the Doberman, Springer Spaniel, Irish Setter, German Shepherd and Greyhound. It is natural for them to require movement and exercise everyday. Not all large dogs need a high level of physical activity.  Size can fool you. Breeds such as the St. Bernard and Bull Mastiff fit this category even though they may well outweigh their keeper.

Small dogs can comfortably live in small spaces. These dogs may include the Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, Poodles and Pekinese who don't need as much outdoor activity since their nervous temperaments cause them to be very active around the house. Granted, their physical activity may be running in all directions around the room, jumping on your guests or pouncing on you, but they do calm down when their energy wanes. Then it's time to recharge by crawling back on your lap or on one of their plush pet beds.

There's much to consider before picking a dog. So take the time to evaluate your living space, personality, and individual activity level so you can determine the best dog match compatible to you.

About the Author

Debbie Foster is the owner of Pet Beds Unlimited and an avid animal lover. You’ll find a wide selection of quality pet beds, dog crates, dog carriers, dog pens, cat beds, cat carriers,large dog beds, pet strollers and more at http://petbedsunlimited.com.