Tips to Pick a Puppy

Picking out a puppy is a very important decision that people have to make. A puppy is a long-term choice, as the animal can live for more than 15 years with some luck and proper care. When picking out a puppy for your home, it can be beneficial to be aware of certain tips.

  1. Breed

    • Think about the breed of dog you are considering. Depending on breed, many health, temperament and dietary characteristics can be expected. Call a local veterinarian and ask what his thoughts are on the breed, particularly regarding any problems that could be associated with it. Also, spend some time with adult dogs from that specific breed, whether at an obedience school for dogs or at a regional dog show. Ask questions of any breeders of the breed and get to know the history of the dog type.

    Purchase

    • Consider purchasing an animal from a reputable breeder, as opposed to a pet store. Pet stores are often associated with puppy mills and practices such as overbreeding of female dogs and crowded, unsanitary conditions. To find a trusted breeder in your region, ask people you know who have used breeders and find out their experiences. Also consider inquiring with your local humane society, animal rescue or veterinarian regarding area breeders.

    Environment

    • If you are thinking about purchasing a puppy from a breeder, make sure to beforehand observe the environment in which the puppy was bred and born. Look for an atmosphere that is tidy and neat. Dirty environments for young puppies are sometimes linked to birth disorders.

    Health Observation

    • When looking for a puppy, do not simply go for the cutest one in the batch. There are a lot of cute puppies. It is vital to make observations regarding the puppy's health, such as looking for eyes that are bright, clean ears, wet and cold noses and clean skin without any parasites, sores or dandruff issues. A responsible breeder should have information regarding the puppy's pedigree and any health problems the parents might have experienced.

    Temperament

    • Try to interact with the puppy before making any decision. The smallest and quietest puppy might not necessarily be the best choice, and the loudest and most energetic one might not be either (the puppy could end up being quite a lot to handle). How a puppy behaves also depends largely on the time of day. A boisterous puppy could be hungry and a sluggish puppy could be ready for nap time or exhausted after a meal. Try to visit a puppy two or three times before deciding and determine which animal fits your home environment the best. A rapid bundle of energy might not be the best choice for a home with small children, for example.