Does Breed Matter?

This is one of the questions Mandy and I are asked everywhere we go. Because Mandy is a Corgi, she's a little "height challenged" lol. This surprises many people because they usually expect a large breed dog such as a German Shepard. We especially get funny looks when Mandy and I go visit places with some friends of ours since her therapy dog is a Pit Bull. Contrary to popular belief ANY breed of dog can be registered through Therapy Dogs Incorporated. The only "dogs" that are not allowed are dogs that have been bred with coyotes or wolves, or are full coyotes or wolves.

Many people also think that dogs such as Pit Bulls are naturally prone to violence and aggression. This is simply NOT true. The dog's temperament has NOTHING to do with breeding and everything to do with training.  Saying that one breed of dog is bad and should not be allowed to live in an area (yes this was a real political issue in Florida) is like Hitler saying that all Jews are bad and should not be allowed to live. This is stereotyping. Cash, the Pit Bull Mandy and I visit with, is an intact male who is not only extremely well behaved, but one of the friendliest dogs I have ever met. The reason Pit Bulls are used for fighting is because of the way they are PHYSICALLY built, NOT because they are naturally prone to violence. In fact, the criminals that train these dogs to fight must go through a lot of work to get them to act as they do.

 Mandy and Cash at Mandy's therapy dog graduation!

Cash loves to give kisses to EVERYONE! One time I stepped on Mandy's paw accidentally. She yelped and Cash acted like Scooby-Doo trying to get away! Such a clown!

It may be true that some breeds have a tendency to do certain things. (i.e. many Golden Retrievers learn new things very easily, or some Dalmations have a tendency to bond with one person more quickly than others) any dog is capable of anything! Training is very important and the breed of dog is really up to the handler. There are a few things to keep in mind though.

1) With smaller breed dogs it is important to remember that you will probably have to pick them up quite a bit to visit with people who can't bend over. (such as people in wheelchairs, beds, walkers, etc.) If you have back problems or struggle to lift your dog, you may choose to opt for either a large breed dog, or a very light small breed dog such as a Chihuahua or a teacup breed.

2) If you, a family member, or anyone you plan to visit with is allergic to dogs, you may want to use a hypo-allergenic dog, such as a poodle.

3) Size does matter! If you have a small car and a large dog, things could get very interesting! Also keep in mind that larger dogs will probably eat more, and possibly require more room to exercise than a large breed.

As for Mandy and I, Mandy is first and foremost a pet and secondly a therapy dog. I don't recommend purchasing a dog just so it can be trained as a Therapy Dog. If you already planned on getting a dog and think Therapy Dog training may be in your future, you may want to consider these things. I also don't recommend purchasing a dog at all! Like I said, TDInc. allows ANY breed to be registered including mutts or mixed breeds! Check out your local animal shelters for a dog that needs a good home. Rescue dogs are often some of the sweetest pups and should not be overlooked! I got Mandy and her brother from a family in Jacksonville, FL. Their owner had developed dog allergies, but she still cared for the dogs very much! She wanted them to go the same home, and of course wanted them to be happy. We are still in touch with their old family and are thankful Mandy and Cole didn't have to be separated in a shelter somewhere. Mandy and Cole really do love each other and I think they're glad to be with us.