A good way to start finding the “perfect pup” is to decide what type of dog you want. Think about what type of dog would be right for you and your family. A big dog? Medium? Small?
What kind of temperament would you like in your dog? Enthusiastic and exuberant all the time? More independent and distant? Something between these two guys?
What about the length of the hair? short haired dogs? long haired dogs? A quick tip: long-haired dogs require regular grooming and can be high-maintenance.
Another thing to consider is that different breeds of dogs have genetic health problems.
Larger dogs are susceptible to hip dysplasia. This is a degenerative disease that affects the hip joint. When a dog with hip dysplasia matures, the hip joint and socket can no longer support the animal’s body weight. The dog will have difficulty running, walking, or even standing. The only cure for this condition is surgery.
Smaller dog breeds have their own genetic concerns. Dogs that fall into the “toy” breed category, such as the Pug, Pekingese, and Lhasa Apso, are prone to respiratory problems. These dogs have a short muzzle (or nose), which affects nasal and sinus development. Respiratory problems are often not apparent in a puppy. They become apparent only as the dog matures.
Once you decide what type of dog you think you want, find people who have that type of dog. Go to the pet store and talk to the people there. Buy some books and magazines about the breed of dog you like.
Research the type of dog you are considering online. There are online forums on most types of dogs where you will get all the information you want from pet owners. People love to talk about their pets!
All of this background work is important in becoming an educated consumer BEFORE purchasing your dog from a breeder.
You are now ready to find a trusted dog breeder. What should you look for in a dog breeder?
Honest dog breeders will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have about their dogs.
Good breeders care about the dog’s environment. Note whether the dog breeder’s premises are clean. Are the puppies well cared for? What kind of puppy food do they use? Have the puppies had their vaccinations? Breeders must provide a complete record of the puppy’s medical care since birth.
Beware of breeders who are only interested in making money. They usually don’t pay much attention to their dog’s emotional needs and health issues. This kind of carefree breeder profoundly affects the type of dogs the puppies will become. A puppy mill environment just spells trouble.
If you have questions about a breeder you are considering doing business with, ask rescue groups or animal shelters about the breeder’s reputation.
Reputable breeders love their animals and go to great lengths to provide a proper environment and medical care for their puppies. Puppies are products of their environment. A good, clean and loving environment will ensure a happy and healthy puppy.
Doing your homework first will go a long way toward finding the perfect pup!
