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Is an appropriate time in your life to add a dog? Although this seems obvious, many people fail to consider this. This is one of the reasons our shelters are over burdened. Take a bit to think about the details of living with a dog. Do you have the time and energy to devote to training, exercise, grooming and general care? Do you have the funds to purchase the dog, all needed supplies, food and pay for veterinary needs?
Purebred or mixed breed?
Either can be a wonderful pet. Although it is believe by many, mixed breeds are not necessarily any healthier than a purebred dog from a responsible breeder. They do, however, make just as wonderful of companions.
A benefit of acquiring a purebred puppy from a responsible breeder is that the pup will most likely grown into a predictable set of traits, from looks to temperament and even health.
Read about some common myths about purebred dogs before you decide. A current fad is "designer breeds", mixing two or more breeds together, coming up with a cute name like "Labradoodle" and selling the offspring for a huge fee. These are really nothing more than a mixed breed dog, with traits no more guaranteed than that of a mixed breed puppy at the pound, for a fraction of the cost. The vast majority of the breeders capitalizing on this fad, take any dog they can acquire with little-to-no regard of structure, health or temperament. Simply mixing them with another breed will not dismiss either breed's problems. Read more about "designer breeds".
Choosing a Breed
There are several factors to consider when selecting a breed. Grooming needs, energy levels, life-span, health issues, normal temperament and more all can vary from breed to breed. Visit www.akc.org for information on various breeds. A wonderful source of breed information is the breed's "parent club". Spending time around adult dogs of a breed you are considering may help make your final choice. Attending a dog show is a wonderful way to meet several different breeds all in one location. Learn more about dogs shows.
Purchase vs. Adoption & Adult vs. Puppy
Did you know that each breed has a dedicated breed rescue? There are thousands of purebred dogs awaiting loving homes in rescue groups and humane societies across the country. The Humane Society of the United States reports that one of every four dogs at a shelter are purebred.
Visit AKC's Rescue page for national breed rescue contacts. Petfinder is a good resource for finding dogs in shelters.
Most often the dogs in rescues are adults, but there are sometimes puppies available. Although, don't be quick to rule out an adult dog as they adjust extremely well to their new homes.
Dogs are rarely in rescue due to fault of their own, so don't think that these are simply problem dogs. Rescue is a wonderful way to save a life, support a good cause and get a wonderful new family member! A good thing about adopting an adult dog through rescue is temperament is pretty much what-you-see-is-what-you-get. There is an adjustment period when bringing a new dog into your home, but for the most part, temperament on an adult dog is fairly easy to gage.
If you decide that purchasing a dog from a breeder is the route for you, it's important to take your time to find a responsible breeder. Please read this link about finding a responsible breeder. The success of the puppy miller relies on the ignorance of the buyer!
No matter what your choice, adult/pup adoption/purchase, neither is a wrong choice.
A dog for the kids?
Although kids can certainly be persuasive, it's important that the adults in the household are ready and willing to take on the responsibility of a dog.
Dogs are not born acting like Lassie nor are they four-footed babysitters. Both dogs and kids will need extra training to learn acceptable behaviors, to ensure safety for both. Be sure you're up to the challenge before Puppy comes home!
Dogs as gifts
If you are thinking of purchasing a dog as a gift for a friend or a loved one, consider instead presenting a leash, dog book, dog bowl or some other dog item instead. This will allow the recipient an opportunity to be involved in the many decisions about his/her new pet. It will also insure the recipient is truly ready for the commitment. Puppies as Christmas presents are not recommended.
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