Choosing Your Puppy Is Very Important

Choosing your puppy is important as owning a dog requires time and commitment to forge a friendship that is rewarding to both the owner and the dog. It is a decision not to be taken lightly and many considerations have to go into choosing a pup for your family. Every year dogs that have outgrown their puppy stage and developed into an adult dog, are placed in rescue centers, because they are no longer suitable for the owner. To avoid this happening be very careful in your choice of pup.

There are long haired and short haired dogs, large and small dogs. Some are not suited to hot climates, because of their coat and others are not happy living in a small area, because of their size. Dogs are bred for many purposes and inherent in their natures is their breeding.

Hunting dogs require a lot of space and plenty of exercise and so do herding breeds. To put these breeds into apartment style living would not be considering the dog’s needs. Small breeds, particularly the ‘lap dog’ type, are more suited for small areas, so when choosing a puppy consider the dog’s genes.

When choosing your puppy, you must also consider your health and family lifestyle. If you are elderly, or young, but find physical movement difficult, do not choose an energetic boisterous pup. There are many breeds available and some of the smaller breeds do not require a lot of exercise, in the form of daily walks.

Finally consider your budget. Large dogs are more expensive to own overall. More to feed, worm, neuter and groom. Poodles and some other longhaired breeds require regular clipping every couple of months and these costs have to be included in the cost of keeping your dog over its lifetime.

Points to Remember

Puppies go through stages of chewing, biting, digging, barking and absconding with anything left within their reach. If you have limited time to devote to a puppy, you may want to consider a mature dog. Animal shelters have many unwanted dogs of all ages, sizes and breeds and they are all looking for a family to love, These dogs are always neutered, vaccinated and thoroughly checked for health issues.

Choosing one of these dogs, may not give you a purebred, but in many instances purebred dogs wind up in shelters as well. Crossbred dogs are usually healthier and have less genetic faults to contend with. They are extremely hard and have good temperament and intelligence

Sometimes you will find the puppy or dog you fall in love with through an advertisement in the paper. Breeders advertise in this medium, as do private owners, who through circumstances cannot keep their pet and want to make sure it goes to a good home, rather than take it to a shelter and hope that someone will take it home.

Once you have chosen your puppy or dog, the responsibility of caring, feeding, training and loving this animal belongs to the whole family. Choose your pup knowing you will have many years of enjoyment together.