Adopting a pet that fits your personality

For anyone looking to adopt a pet, it can be overwhelming to decide which companion will best complement your lifestyle. Animals have personalities as colorful and diverse as people, and finding the right pet can make a big difference in your life.

Studies have shown that pet owners are happier and healthier than people who do not have pets. You want to give your pet a great quality of life as well, and that comes very naturally if you select a furry friend who is compatible with your personality.

German Shepherds

For the disciplined and driven person, you need a pet who is every bit as capable as you are. Known for their obedience, German Shepherds are intelligent and hardworking. You are too focused on your goals to worry about being popular, and the socially reserved German Shepherd will not mind at all.

Labrador Retriever

If you are an outdoors person who is friendly and inquisitive, you need a Labrador Retriever by your side. These outgoing dogs never meet a stranger, and they are athletic and playful enough to keep up with your energetic lifestyle. This match is even more ideal if you are drawn to the water, as Labrador Retrievers are excellent swimmers.

French Bulldogs

If you are laid back, reserved, and your idea of exercise is a quiet walk in the evening, you need a French Bulldog. He does not require a ton of exercise and is happy just chasing a ball while you watch the television. In fact, your French Bulldog will grow into quite the couch potato in his adult years. He is mainly quiet and politely unsociable, just like you.

Siberian Huskies

On the other hand, if you are an extroverted daredevil with a love for the mountains, the Siberian Husky makes the perfect sidekick. These dogs thrive in cold weather and love rugged hikes and hard work. They are gentle, good-natured, and alert, yet not overly suspicious or aggressive. They love the company of humans and will fit right in with your adventurous group of friends.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

For the quiet homebody who is affectionate and easygoing, your match made in heaven is  the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. These dogs are sweet and compassionate and get along with everyone. The only thing your little dog will love as much as lying in your lap is sleeping in it. This gentle dog just goes with the flow and lives in the moment.

Cats

Despite how perfect some of these dog breeds may be for your personality, if you are too busy to devote time to a dog then you may want to consider adopting a more independent pet. Cats, for example, may be a better fit for the person who is never home. Some breeds such as Siamese cats and Burmese cats, however, depend more on human contact than others.

The best approach to adopting a pet is to do your research. If you have children or other pets, it is important to learn about the temperament of an animal before bringing it home. Some shelters will let you walk a dog or even take it for a hike, which is a great way to get to know a new animal.

Petfinder.com offers a searchable list of pets from over 12,000 shelters and rescue groups in the the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Here you can search for birds, cats, dogs, and even horses which are available for adoption in your local area. No matter what animal you decide to adopt, just remember that by adopting you are saving a life, and finding the right pet can drastically improve your life as well.

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By Chrissy Sexton, Earth.com Staff Writer