How to choose the right dog with AI

Evaluate your lifestyle and activity level

Dogs are bred for certain characteristics. Herding dogs, for example, like Australian Shepherds and border collies, require lots of exercise. If you’re frequently active, choose an athletic breed to hit the trails on your next camping trip or run beside you on your bike ride. On the other hand, look at breeds that aren’t as high-energy if you lead a sedentary lifestyle. AI recommends dog breeds based on your activity preferences and lifestyle. Try prompts like this:

• I run marathons, and I want a dog to train with me. What dog breeds should I consider?
• I am moderately active and go on a few walks a week. What are some dog breeds that have a moderate activity level?
• My lifestyle is quite sedentary, and I would like a dog that has lower energy. Can you recommend dog breeds?

Assess your home space

Your home matters when adopting a dog, of course. Do you have a spacious, gated backyard? A bigger, more athletic dog will need plenty of room to roam. Not having adequate space may stress out some dogs. They may bark excessively, chew furniture, and overall strain your relationship. In a small apartment, for example, you will need to walk your active dog frequently. AI can analyze your living space, match you with suitable breeds, and offer insights on managing energy needs in smaller living environments. Here are prompt examples that can guide you in finding the right breed for your space:

• I live on a farm. What dogs would be suitable?
• Suggest dogs that would do well in a mid-size, one-bedroom apartment.
• Which dog breeds are adaptable to smaller homes?

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Consider your work schedule and daily availability

Have a strict 9-5 in the office? Or do you work from home? A new dog, especially a puppy, will need time to acclimate to their new environment, and it’s important to be around your new furry friend while they adjust. Let AI guide you in finding a dog breed that aligns with your schedule with these example prompts:

• I work 9-5 in an office and am not home during the day; what breeds can handle being alone for long hours?
• I work a hybrid schedule and am home twice a week. Which dog breeds could work with my schedule?
• Can a [dog breed] adapt to being alone for a few hours a day without a cage? How can I make it work?

If your availability window is narrow and you don’t have another person around to care for your new dog, you may have to consider paying for doggy daycare or finding a babysitter. Restructure your budget to accommodate these costs with prompt examples like:

• Can you help me budget for dog daycare or pet-sitting based on my 9-5 work schedule?
• What’s the estimated monthly cost for dog daycare or pet-sitting services if I need coverage during work hours?
• What is the average cost for a dog walker in Chicago?

Factor in age

A puppy needs more care and attention. Older dogs are usually housebroken and have training. Age also influences personality and energy needs. Young dogs and puppies have more energy, whereas older dogs are often calmer with more established routines. Have AI assess factors like your time, energy level, and training preferences to match you with the right dog’s age.

• I have limited time for training. Would an older dog be a better fit for me?
• I’m interested in adopting a puppy. What should I know about the time and attention needed?
• What are the personality differences between puppies, young adult dogs, and senior dogs?

Ask about children and pets

Some dogs are great around other pets and young children; others may not be compatible due to their temperament. Pick a dog you know will behave well around your young ones and pets like cats. Turn to AI to find a family-friendly dog that’s also good with other pets or figure out how to socialize your new dog properly.

• I have young kids and a cat at home. Can you recommend a breed known for being good with children and pets?
• What dog breeds should I avoid if I have young children?
• How do I socialize a dog with family and other pets?

Take a dog personality quiz

Like activity level, the breed can influence your dog’s unique personality. Some breeds, for example, are more sociable than others, like a golden retriever. Check your compatibility with the dog you’re considering. AI can also quiz you to understand who you are and which breed aligns with your social needs, energy level, and living environment.

Look to these prompts:

• Can you quiz me on my lifestyle, personality, and social needs to find a compatible dog breed?
• I want a dog that enjoys intellectual stimulation. What breeds align with this?
• Suggest dogs that are docile and don’t bark a lot.

AI offers pet owners endless possibilities beyond finding the right dog. From using it as a dog name generator to asking for “dog adoption centers near me,” AI makes every step of the dog-adoption process easier and more personalized.