QuickOverview

By Donna Gunnels

Ah, puppies. Who can resist those liquid eyes, those slurpy kisses, and those whole-body wags that make a pup shimmy and shake all over? Few among us, that's who. Which is why millions of people each year chose to add one to their family. Are you considering adding a four-footed friend to your family? Here are some extremely important things to keep in mind when searching for the perfect puppy.

There are no Perfect Puppies

Yes, that's right. Puppies are a mess in more ways than one. Now that that has been said, let's delve further: puppies do not come equipped with a manual. They also do not arrive into this world knowing how to come, sit, stay or do their business outside. That part is entirely up to you. So when you have Milkbones in your eyes and are picturing a darling little guy bounding happily to greet you at the door, blink a couple of times and imagine your favorite shoes torn up because you forgot to put them out of reach.

Bottom line with this tip? Be realistic. Choosing a puppy requires far more than bringing one home. Do your homework, be prepared, and always expect the unexpected.

Research the Breeds

There are hundreds of breeds out there, and what you want to remember is that each breed evolved and was bred to specific standards and traits.

Can't stand the idea of your prized azaleas ripped up at the roots and trotted around the yard? Don't seek out a terrier. They were bred to dig. Still want one of these entertaining, intelligent clowns? Provide a place for your terrier to do the job nature intended; you.ll be a much happier owner.

Don't want to spend hours brushing? Might want to stay away from Golden Retrievers, who are notorious for shedding and require regular grooming. On the flip side, they are absolutely wonderful family dogs who must be with their .people. at all times. They are definitely NOT outside or independent dogs.

Bottom line? Inherited traits are.inherited. You can absolutely cut down on unwanted behaviors (a dog who is supervised won't dig without you noticing) but you should keep in mind that every breed has universal traits.

Only Fools Rush In

Take your time in choosing a puppy. Remember that this is a huge responsibility and not one to be taken lightly. You very well may live with this furry creature for upwards of fifteen, sixteen, even seventeen years. Are you committed to this undertaking? Are the other members of your family all on board as well?

Bottom line? While it's often difficult to ignore your heart, you really should let your head lead this one.

Where to Begin

Assuming you want a purebred and you've researched the breed you want, confident that it will fit into your family, home and lifestyle, start talking. Talk to friends who have this breed. Attend dog shows, where you are more likely to find a reputable breeder. Ask questions. A reputable breeder will also ask questions of you. Be prepared to fill out an application and sign a contract in regards to health care and spay/neuter procedures as well as being open to having the breeder chose a puppy for you, based on their knowledge of personality types. Really good breeders want complete assurance that their dogs are only going to good, loving, responsible homes. In exchange, you.ll be more likely to obtain a well-bred dog of good health and temperament. These breeders will also have first-hand knowledge of .rescue. dogs in need of new homes. Breed rescues often have the exact type of pup you are looking for.in need of a second chance for numerous reasons. Ask about genetic testing, temperament, health clearances and titles.

Bottom line? Ask for, and take, advice.

Don't Care About Pedigrees?

There are thousands of dogs and puppies in desperate need of good homes today. Mixed-breeds are abundantly available through local animal shelters and Humane Societies. Speak to the shelter staff about any know background of the pup, as well as their observations of behaviors and health.

Bottom line? Saving a life feels oh- so- good, and many people report that the best dog they ever had was one they saved.

The Nitty-Gritty

The time comes when you have the chance to interact with some puppies, whether it is at a shelter, a rescue, a reputable breeder, or a friend's house. First, sit down on the ground and relax. Which pup comes over first? He's a cutie, but that doesn't mean you should take that as a sign that he is your dog. The typical dog owner doesn't necessarily need the alpha pup. Nor do you want the shy pup huddled in the corner, no matter how sad and forlorn she looks. Look for the middle-of-the-road puppy. The one who isn't shy, yet isn't pushy. Observe the puppy at play. Is she perky? Lively? Does she come when you call her or pat the ground? Can you easily touch all of her? Can you roll her onto her back without a struggle? Does she have clear eyes and ears with no sign of mucus or discharge? Does she smell clean? Is her fur glossy?

Bottom line? Better pack a snack. It's likely to take a while.

Pet Stores - Don't Even go There

Pet stores may have adorable puppies in the window, but the price you.ll pay will far exceed the amount on the tag. Pet stores rarely ask for an application nor do they do any type of screening to ensure a safe, secure home. They typically obtain their stock from breeders known as .backyard breeders. or, in the worst-case scenario, a puppy mill. Backyard breeders are people who breed for all the wrong reasons, with money being top of the list. The pet store may tell you they have a money-back guarantee, but who wants to get attached to a pup only to find out they have a genetic disease that could have been prevented by responsible testing and breeding in the first place? Reputable breeders do extensive testing for genetic problems and breed ONLY to better the breed. Backyard breeders typically do NOT, and puppy mills exist simply to mass-produce puppies in horrid, unlivable situations.

Bottom line? Just say NO to pet stores and backyard breeders.

So now you have an idea of where to start. You've planned, you've planned, and you've planned some more. Did you plan? Now go look for that new addition to your family.

Enjoy the puppy breath while it lasts, and enjoy your dog for years.

Related Sites

Dee Ganley Dog Training Services - Choosing a Puppy

Pick the right dog breed to suit your lifestyle and personality.