Your lifestyle and the right breed: A checklist

*Do you like peace and quiet? If so, a shrieking, hyper Pomeranian or Boston terrier, would not fit in.

*Do you live in an apartment? If so, it would be difficult for a Great Dane, St. Bernard, or Mastiff to live there.

*Do you enjoy long walks, jogging or hiking up mountain trails? If so, a Labrador or some other active breed would be just right.

*Do you want a lap dog or one to play around the house? Dachshunds, toy and miniature Poodles, Bichons, Maltese, Chihuahuas and certain small breeds of terriers are all too happy to lie on a lap or on your feet all day. For an exuberant playmate, Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Collies, Dobermans, Fox and Rat Terriers and Boxers are all excellent choices.

*Do you suffer from allergies or asthma? If so, avoid long- haired, double coated breeds such as St. Bernards and Collies that shed a large portion of the year. If you have asthma, there is a long-standing belief by many people that Chihuahuas don’t cause as many flare-ups. Poodles are also credited with a lower incidence of asthma related complications because of their low shedding rate.

*Do you have children in the household? If so, it would be advisable to avoid such dogs as Chows, Pit Bulls and other, sometimes aggressive breeds. Many areas require liability insurance for owners of so-called vicious breeds.

* Do you have it in you to care a lot? Will you have the time needed to devote to heavy coated breeds such as a Collie? Could spending $30 or more every six to eight weeks to have a professional groomer clip a poodle cause financial hardship? What about veterinary care? A typical annual exam and vaccinations in the can cost up to $100. This cost does not include such necessities as heartworm prevention, shampoos and food.