After making the decision to bring a puppy into your home, you will be confronted with a lot of important decisions. Where will your puppy sleep? Who will be responsible for feeding and training? What is your monthly budget for puppy supplies? However, finding the perfect puppy is a process that may take a bit of time, especially if you are unsure of what kind of puppy is right for your home. Here is some information that will help you to find the perfect puppy.
ADOPT OR BUY?
The first decision that you need to make is if you will be adopting a puppy from an animal shelter, or purchasing your puppy from a breeder. In general, animal shelters are the best decision, since they provide basic medical care, spaying/neutering and vaccinations for no extra charge. In addition to this, by adopting a puppy from an animal shelter, you are saving that puppy from potentially being euthanized. However, if you are looking for something specific, there are many breeders available that specialize in areas such as rare breeds, “certified breed” puppies and stud dogs. Depending on your needs, you need to make the best choice for your personal situation.
CHOOSING A BREED
Deciding what breed of puppy is best for your lifestyle is also extremely important. Some breeds, such as Labrador Retrievers, are extremely active, requiring a lot of attention. By contrast, a breed such as a Golden Retriever will usually not be as “high energy” as a Labrador. Choose your puppy’s breed carefully, since it’s best if their temperament fits your lifestyle.
CHOOSING A PUPPY FROM A LITTER
If you are choosing a puppy from a litter, you should pay attention to behavioral traits. Do not choose a puppy that seems withdrawn, afraid or reluctant to interact with humans. However, a puppy that is eager for your attention may grow up to be extremely emotionally dependent, a need that not all dog owners can fulfill. To gain the best idea of how a puppy will act once in your home, ask the owner of the puppies if you can see them each individually. Spend some time alone with each puppy, noting if it seems comfortable, curious and inquisitive. A healthy puppy will be eager to interact with the world around them, and be more than willing to investigate your specific scent. In addition to this, be sure that the puppy that you choose is free from any visible physical deformities or illness.
Tue, Dec 29, 2009