Commentary: Don’t let breed be your only consideration when getting a pet

SINGAPORE: A recent news report suggests there is a growing preference among Singaporeans for small dog breeds when welcoming a pet into their homes.

Pet shops featuring miniaturised breeds like teacup poodles are gaining popularity, despite health risks associated with those breeds. Social media is also often abuzz with advertisements showcasing crossbred pedigrees such as “cavapoos” and “pomskys”.

At the SPCA, we frequently encounter prospective adopters inquiring about available pedigree breeds, or smaller-sized dogs. They believe that smaller dogs are easier to manage in a young family, encounter fewer health issues, and possess greater sociability or adaptability.

However, the reality is far more intricate. While breed and size may influence some aspects, they merely scratch the surface of a dog's multifaceted personality.

BREED AND SIZE FALL SHORT IN DEFINING PERSONALITY AND TRAITS

Despite extensive research on canine personalities and their genetic predispositions, most studies regarding breed-specific traits remain inconclusive.

A survey involving 18,000 dogs highlighted that modern breeds mainly share physical traits, not behavioural ones. It found that breed is not a good predictor of behaviour, explaining only 9 per cent of behavioural variations in individual dogs.

When it comes to size, while larger dogs may possess bigger neocortices, possibly making them more trainable and less anxious, there is no one-size-fits-all rule. This isn't to label smaller dogs as inherently more reactive, but their diminutive size might necessitate additional training efforts to bolster confidence.

Irrespective of a dog's size or breed, other factors play a more significant role in decoding their unique personalities.

A dog's genetic background helps shape some of its personality traits. For instance, a puppy born to shy parents is more likely to display fearful tendencies. Additionally, the time a dog spends with its litter mates greatly influences its social skills. Puppies that socialise well in their early days tend to grow into friendly and confident adult dogs.

However, the most significant influencer in a dog's personality is you. Like humans, dogs' personalities aren't set in stone; they evolve over time, shaped by their lifestyles and experiences as they age. A 2019 study conducted in Sweden even suggests that dogs' stress levels reflect their owners' and are also affected by their owners' personality traits.

Most canine behaviour can be altered through positive reinforcement and enrichment, especially if training begins early. Training isn't just for your dog - it is a journey that involves the whole family. Creating a nurturing environment filled with enriching experiences is crucial for ensuring your dog’s social adjustment.

CHOOSE A COMPANION BASED ON LIFESTYLE COMPATIBILITY

The appeal of owning a teacup poodle might seem charming, but it's crucial to understand the health hazards these miniature dogs encounter. Frequently bred from the smallest in the litter, they are highly susceptible to various health issues including low blood sugar, respiratory difficulties, heart ailments, arthritis and deformities in the liver or brain.

Similarly, crossbred pedigrees often suffer from congenital issues like hip dysplasia, epilepsy and kidney diseases, due to subpar breeding practices that prioritise looks over well-being.

Instead of selecting a dog based on breed or personality, it is wiser to assess your lifestyle first. A pet is a lifelong commitment, so you must consider how your circumstances will impact the life you bring home.

If you already have a bustling household, think about the energy levels your pet should match. While the idea of a playful puppy is attractive, it is akin to adding another toddler to your family. An older dog might bring a touch of calmness along with love and companionship.

Consider future family expansions and initiate behaviour training early to ensure your pet's comfort as your family grows. Heartbreaking decisions often arise when families expand, leaving little room for pets.

Financial and medical issues are top reasons for pet surrenders at the SPCA. While predicting the future is impossible, consider your financial stability and the potential medical needs of your pet. Consider your own health too; if you are prone to respiratory issues, opt for a pet better suited to your needs.

Above all, reflect on how much time you can dedicate to your pet. If your days are packed with long hours at work, maybe holding off on a pet for now could be the wiser choice.

BENEFITS OF ADOPTING INSTEAD OF PURCHASING A PET

When you adopt a pet, you gain a level of predictability and insight into the pet's background and life experiences. Unlike purchasing from breeders, where the pet's history might be unclear, adopted animals often come with some information about their temperament, behaviour and health.

By choosing adoption, you stand against unethical breeding practices. Adoption also provides a second chance for animals that have faced abandonment or neglect, offering them a loving home and a better life.

Shelters are filled with an array of pets, making it more likely to find a companion that suits your lifestyle and preferences. After all, bringing a pet into your life isn't just about the joy they bring but also the hope you offer them.

Aarthi Sankar is Executive Director of SPCA Singapore.