How to Choose a Dog From a Litter

Choosing a dog from a large selection or litter can be as easy or as hard as you want it to be. In the long term, however, it is wise to put thought into this decision, as there are certain behavioral characteristics that can be spotted early. Some of these traits might be desirable, and others wise to avoid. With the proper amount of general knowledge, you can choose the dog that best fits your needs.

Things You'll Need

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Instructions

    • 1

      Survey the puppies with the breeder present. Do any of them look sickly or unhealthy? Stay away from purchasing a puppy whose health is questionable.

    • 2

      Spend individual time with each of the puppies you would consider purchasing. Note each puppy's distinctive behaviors, level of energy and physical size.

    • 3

      Ask the breeder or vendor about the shot record of both the mother and each puppy you are considering. It is crucial that you know which shots the puppy needs and which it has already had, in order to avoid disease.

    • 4

      Narrow the selection of puppies down to two or three. Avoid picking the overly energetic dogs, as this characteristic may indicate a personality that will prove difficult to tame. Also avoid picking the smallest dog, as this sometimes represents stunted growth or malnutrition.

    • 5

      Look primarily at aesthetics when making your final decision, as long as all of the puppies are fairly equal in health and personality. For instance, a darker coat or distinguishing spot on a puppy often manifests similarly as an adult. Also consider which dog you feel the best connection with; rely partly on intuition when making your pick.

    • 6

      Make full payment for the puppy if you are ready to take it home immediately; otherwise, if you trust the seller, you can arrange to leave a deposit while you buy food and prepare your house for a dog.