Adopting a puppy is a huge decision—one that will alter your life in ways you may not yet realize. A puppy will bring you joy and frustration. He will test your patience and reward you with infinite love. He will be your friend, your playmate, your little terror, and your snuggle buddy. Bringing home the right puppy can seem like a challenging task.
There are benefits and drawbacks to different dogs. Whether you want a large or small dog often depends on your personal preferences, the space you have available, how settled you are in life, and your tendency to travel. If you have your heart set on a specific breed, you’ll probably gravitate toward that, although there are advantages to adopting a basic mutt. Dogs with indeterminate genetics tend to have fewer health problems than purebreds.
If you’re still living in an apartment or rental space, you may want to consider a smaller dog. Some apartment complexes allow only dogs up to 25 pounds, and some landlords prefer smaller dogs as well.
Finding a litter can be the most challenging part. Shelters are a great place to start, although puppies rarely stay there for long. If you visit a shelter and find a puppy, spend as much time with him as possible before committing. Remember, adopting a puppy is a lifelong commitment. Taking the time to choose the right one is essential.
If you have an active household with constant noise, chatter, and other animals, bringing home the little guy who is quivering in the corner may not be the best choice. You’ll need a puppy who isn’t so fearful of the world around him. However, if you live alone or in a quiet environment, the quiet little guy may come out of his shell with you.
The internet and newspapers are filled with puppy listings, but do not buy from a puppy mill. For starters, you’ll likely bring home a puppy prone to health issues. Secondly, by purchasing from a puppy mill, you’re supporting one of the greatest injustices against innocent animals.
Find a Reputable Dog Breeder
A reputable breeder can be found with a little research. While registering with the American Kennel Club is a good first step, it’s important to know that even puppy mill dogs can be registered. The best way to determine if a breeder is knowledgeable and conscientious is by word of mouth. Talk to people. Visit puppy parks and ask questions. Dog owners love to share information, and you’ll likely walk away with more insights than you ever expected.
Once you’ve found a litter that matches your basic requirements, spend time with the puppies as often as possible. Playing with them frequently will help reveal their natural personalities, giving you an idea of how they might behave once you bring them home. The boldest of the litter will likely grow bolder with age. This is good if you have a busy home, but be cautious not to encourage a bully.
Observe how the puppies interact with each other and with you. The puppy who can tolerate roughhousing without backing down is probably a good match for families with children. Fearful puppies may not grow out of their fear, and they might struggle in a chaotic environment. Aggressive puppies are likely to become more aggressive before they can be calmed down.
Often, the puppies make the decision for us. This may sound a little new-age, but it’s true. When interacting with a litter, one puppy might show more interest in you than the others, or he may be the first to reach you and the last to leave your side. Sometimes, a puppy will simply crawl up into your lap and fall asleep. These are all signs of bonding, and while they may not be the final decision-maker, they’re certainly worth considering.
Don’t let yourself be pressured into committing before you’re ready. If you need more time, explain that. Some people put deposits down on puppies even before they are born. Just because the puppies are going fast doesn’t mean you should jump on the bandwagon unless you’re certain it’s true love. After all, puppies are a commitment for at least the next ten years. You won’t regret taking your time to find the right puppy for you.
