WINGATE — Looking at some dog and owner combinations, our first impression might be, “What were they thinking!?” Mismatches can be comical, sometimes dangerous, even tragic. That unfortunate OOPS! dog often ends up being passed from home to home, left at a shelter or worse. How we all wish basic things like adult size, health issues, energy level, coat care, exercise requirements had been considered!

I’ve been fortunate to be involved since 1990 with an annual event hosted by the Piedmont Kennel Club in Charlotte: Responsible Dog Ownership Day, Meet the Breeds, held this past September. The title and time of year for the event have varied; the format has not. The purpose of the Meet the Breeds event is to assist people in finding a dog that’s suited to them.

Responsible breeders or breed representatives are invited to set up 10-foot by 10-foot display booths for their well-mannered adult dogs to meet and greet the public. Rescue groups also attend. We are quite a mixed bag of dogs and their humans.

The free literature tables overflow with general information from the American Kennel Club, the American Dog Owners’ Association and the Association of Pet Dog Trainers.

Truth be told, it’s a long, tiring event; we all usually look a lot like some Far Side “dog tired” cartoon by the end of the day. However, if we’ve given someone helpful training or management suggestions, if we’ve assisted someone in the future selection of a dog that’s odds on to meet their expectations, it’s all worthwhile and inflates our sails for next year’s event.

With the holidays just around the corner, I’ve received quite a few calls and e-mails from folks looking for a Christmas puppy. So, I am delighted to be able to present a program at the Monroe Library’s Griffin Room on Dec. 12. We can get together there to talk about the many different breeds of dogs, the many mixed breeds of dogs and how some might be more suitable than others for individual situations and lifestyles.

Deciding on a type of dog, finding a responsible, ethical breeder or locating a reputable shelter or rescue group all deserve time and attention.

There are also things to consider if you’re thinking of acquiring a dog or puppy during the holidays. We want that new four-footed family member to have every chance to settle in and form good habits from the beginning. We plan to accomplish much of that by being consistent with Fido’s meals, playtimes and house training. This can be difficult when life is hectic and routines are haywire; when friends and relatives are coming and going; when shopping and dozens of other things demand our attention. Responsible dog owners need to be prepared. After all, a dog is for life, not just for Christmas.

See you at the library.

— Maggie Blutreich is a certified professional dog trainer, charter, professional member No. 30 of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, an American Kennel Club canine ambassador and public education coordinator. Send questions to with the subject line, “Enquirer Journal.”