Fraternity-Testvériség, 1963 (40. évfolyam, 1-12. szám)
1963-12-01 / 12. szám
6 FRATERNITY THE RIGHT DOG FOR YOU Ever struck by the similarity between some people and their dogs? A well-manicured Poodle at one end of a velvet leash is often balanced by an equally stylish matron on the other. Pipe-smoking outdoorsmen seem to favor sporting and working dogs, such as Pointers and Mastiffs. And although a shapely blonde and her drooling, bow-legged Bulldog don’t look alike, both are probably determined and tenacious individuals. Most people select their pet, consciously or subconsciously, for a wide variety of personal reasons. These can range from the social image they feel surrounds the individual breed and the temperament of the owner, to a misconception about the breed’s characteristics. Whatever your reasons for choosing a particular pet, you should be guided by these practical considerations from authorities at the Purina Pet Care Center, St. Louis. First point, who is the dog for? Older people generally prefer a quieter, more sedate type — one who would be more suitable for a stroll in the park rather than chasing rabbits in the woods. Children, on the other hand, have other things in mind. They just want a playmate and companion — a spirited pet, with the same inexhaustible energy they have. Second point, what size dog? A Great Dane may crowd you, also needs space for exercise, and has a gargantuan appetite. And a Chihuahua is all dog too — even though he can fit in your pocket! If you live in the country or suburbs, a larger dog may be your ticket. But apartment dwellers would do better to choose one of the smaller breeds — Beagle, Pug, Dachshund, miniature Poodle and such. No matter what breed you decide on, you’ll have to choose between a male and female. The female is usually less expensive — but for good reason: be prepared for puppies, unless you have her spayed or pen her up for short periods of time twice a year at given intervals. The male of the soecies is generally less trouble as a pet. However, he tends to want to prowl about the neiehborhood more. But for some children — and parents, too — nothing but a “boy dog” will do. Should your dog have a pedigree? Many prospective dog owners are puzzled over the difference between a pure-bred and a mixed breed. What can this difference mean to you? Well, to a Mrs. High Tone of Park Avenue, a “thorough-bred” may mean a mark of distinction — or a qualified entry in a dog show. But there are other reasons for considering a pure-bred dog. A pedigree does assure that the dog you buy will look like its parents. The main reason for choosing a pure-bred is that you know what you’re getting. When you get a mongrel or mixed-breed pup, you take a chance on its parentage. It’s almost impossible to predict what that tinv bundle of fur will looke like when it’s fully grown. But it may be just as
