It’s that time of year again when thoughts turn to giving the perfect gift. Maybe the children are begging for a puppy, or you want to get a loving companion dog for your parents or a parent who lives alone.
Ask yourself the following questions before you rush out and purchase or adopt a puppy:
- Are you, or the recipient ready for at least a 12 to 15-year commitment?
- Do you have the financial resources for all the pup’s needs – crate, toys, food, veterinary care?
- Did you do your research or consult with a professional to determine if the breed you are interested in will be a good fit for your lifestyle, the size of your home and other family members? Consulting with a trainer in advance of getting a pup will help you prepare yourself and your home for life with your new fur baby.
- If you’re purchasing, did you research breeders? Remember, reputable breeders DO NOT sell their puppies to retail stores. They also do not breed the female every year. Over breeding can produce pups with various health issues.
- If you do go to a breeder, ask to meet the pup’s parents, see medical records and ask for references from some of her other customers. Do not take a puppy home before it is 8 weeks of age. It’s necessary to keep a pup with its litter so it learns bite inhibition. Also, ask if the pups are raised inside the home rather than outside in a kennel. Puppies who get used to the sights and sounds of living in a home from a very early age are less likely to develop fears of various loud noises such as the TV or the dropping of a pot in the kitchen.
- Most importantly, don’t wait a few months to start working with a trainer. You should start within a week of bringing home your pup. Early training can prevent problems from happening, rather than having to fix problems you weren’t expecting to arise.
- No patience or time to housebreak and train a pup? Consider adopting from a reputable rescue organization or a no kill shelter.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!