So you have decided to get a puppy! After taking into account any possible problems you have selected the breed of dog that will suit you and your way of life. The only problem now is where to get the dog from. You need to know that it has been well taken care of in its first weeks, so you need to find a breeder who is respectable. But finding your perfect dog takes time and research.
Good Dogs come from Good Breeders
It is important that these first weeks of a dog's life are safe, stable and healthy and that he and his mother are well cared for. This will give the finest possible beginning for your puppy and make your relationship with him and his future training a good deal simpler.
The top dog breeders do not need to promote, their puppies are in such demand that there is usually a waiting list. Ask around - your vet, friends and neighbours - as word of mouth is the best way to contact the good dog breeders. Although dog breeders are often quite 'quirky' and totally focussed on their breed and the dog world, they are generally very devoted to the care of their animals.
Once you have a source for a breeder, then get in touch with them and arrange a visit. This is the first test of a good breeder. If they are not happy for you to visit their business, then walk away. What is it that they don't want you to see?
When you go to call on a breeder there are things you have to check out. Obviously, clean sanitary conditions are a must, but if you have come from a dog -free home, be ready for 'doggy' smells! This is not owing to a lack of hygiene but simply numerous dogs and puppies about the place.
You can expect a good breeder to start checking you out as soon as you arrive to choose your puppy. They will want to be certain that their puppies are going to good homes so be prepared to answer lots of questions - they will expect questions from you too so don't hold back. The type of questions you should ask are: -
How long have you been breeding dogs? The best breeders will be well established over many years.
Are there any unique issues with this breed? They should be frank with you and tell you about any issues.
May I see the father of the puppy? This may be a stud dog, but they ought to be able to show a photograph and tell you the name of the stud/owner.
Where does the mother live when not breeding, and how frequently do you breed from her? In the home is the best response as this produces happier more socialized dogs. Respectable breeders restrict the breeding to the recommended four litters in a life span.
Can I return the puppy if there is a problem? The majority breeders would in fact demand this and you may find it is a provision of sale with good breeders.
Can I talk to other folks who have your puppies? The breeder should be happy and confident about his breeding success and this should not be a problem.
Breeders who are thoroughly 'into' their dogs frequently have numerous tell-tale signs about the place - look for ornaments of their breed on a shelf, blankets on top of sofas for their dogs to get comfortable, show certificates, ribbons and photos on the walls. These demonstrate the sort of dedication and dog obsession, which makes a good breeder - doing it for love, not profit.
If you are thinking of buying a pure-bred puppy, then check with your vet beforehand which kinds of screening for inherited health conditions should be done such as puppy eye disorders- then ask the breeder about it. They should be happy to provide all the information you need and be ready to give you support and guidance.
Naturally you should have a good look at the pups and their mothers. Are the puppies happy, inquisitive and paying attention to their surroundings? If they are dull and quiet and reserved, then you should be wary. The mother should look healthy and well cared for; if she looks fatigued and is not concerned in the puppies take this as a warning.
Breeders to Avoid
Always steer clear of dogs from commercial 'puppy farms' or 'mills' where the pups are bred in terrible emotional and physical circumstances. These places are run solely as a profit-making enterprise to make money and the welfare of the puppies and their mother are a low priority. Also keep away from pet shops as these overwhelmingly get their stock from puppy farms.
Avoid the internet too, even though invaluable for general information it is very simple for 'farms' to dress up their operations on these sites to appear to be caring, conscientious breeders. Be especially suspicious if a breeders offers to transport a puppy to you so you don't go to their location - these are almost certainly puppy farmers.
Newspaper ads or notices in shop windows are also suspect. Good breeders generally have homes for their pups even before they are born so would never sell them in this way. If they did want a home for a puppy it would always be done through the vet not in a shop window!
Picking an Adult Dog
If you are happy to take on an adult dog, instead of a puppy, then be sure you pick carefully. Adult dogs might have behavior issues and you should investigate comprehensively to ensure you appreciate what you are taking on. However, the dog could need re-homing simply because of changes of circumstance - a death, illness or house moves are the most frequent causes.
Well run dog shelters are a good source of adult dogs, as well as puppies, and you can find a whole range of pure breeds and cross-breeds. These places frequently have excellent websites describing the dogs presently in their care and any issues associated with them for example barking. Some may match specific homes - with or without children, quiet, busy - so look carefully at the dogs requirements.
Make certain you have a clear impression of what you are looking for before you set foot in a dog shelter - and stick to it. All those appealing eyes watching between the bars can stir the strongest resolve! Be sure your head rules your heart when you go to find your perfect dog.
The team at the shelter will question you closely before they consent to you to home a dog. Often there are questionnaires to complete and a visit to your home, before they will even consider you. They have to be sure that the dogs go to the right home for them, so be frank and straight with them about your lifestyle and requirements.
Bear in mind, these dogs have previously lost one owner so the team do not mean the dogs to go through the distress once more.
So, when you undertake to find your ideal dog - either a new puppy or an adult dog for re-housing - be sure you take the time and research thoroughly before you make your choice. Get it right and your dog will be your friend and companion for life.
