How to Choose a Puppy

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He's cute, but how big will he get?

Credit: Once you have made the decision to get a puppy, the fun really starts. You will have to get a crate, a few chew toys, a cute collar, and a leash. Most importantly, you need the puppy. Before you go out and get just any old pup, you should do some research

The Fun Really Starts

Decision Made

Once you have made the decision to get a puppy, the fun really starts. You will have to get a crate, a few chew toys, a cute collar, and a leash. Most importantly, you need the puppy. Before you go out and get just any old pup, you should do some research to make sure you get the right dog for your family. Here are a few tips on how to choose a puppy.[1]

Research, Read, Repeat

First, you want to jump on your computer and do a lot of research. Read about what it is like to have a puppy, including time commitments, vet bills, and other costs. Learn about how puppies behave so you will be prepared when your puppy chews your shoes. Many dog owners highly recommend the book Puppies For Dummies, which will tell you everything you need to know about owning a puppy. These will all help in how to choose a puppy.

A Boy and His Pups Be careful Your Pet is Neutered!

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

The Art of Raising a Puppy (Revised Edition)
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Pick a Breed that Fits Your Lifestyle

Never Just Because He Is Cute

You also want to pick a breed that will best fit with your lifestyle. Never chose a one just because he’s cute. So be sure you research different breeds of dogs, their sizes, temperaments, grooming requirements and potential health problems. Then choose the best dog breed for you and your family.

The Pick Of The Litter

You’ve decided what breed of puppy you want. You’ve found a litter of pups from Petfinder.com, your local classifieds ad, or perhaps your neighbor. Now, it is time to choose the best of the litter. Most people will agree that they are not looking for an overly dominant one, or the shyest of the group. It is best to get a dog that falls in the middle. Here’s some tips on how to choose:[2]

Observation – Watch the puppies as they move freely around the room or enclosure. Take them out of the kennel or crate. Make a note of the ones that are running around crazy, the ones that are lethargic, and the ones that are awake but calm and content. You want to keep in mind the one that isn’t too hyperactive.
Pick-‘Em-Up – When it is standing on all fours, put your hands around his middle and lift him up a few inches from the ground. See which ones struggle, and which ones remain relaxed. Make note of the puppy that stays relaxed.
Create Commotion – Stand up and move around by shaking your arms and legs, clap your hands, and try to get the young one to follow you. Make note of the ones that appear interested, but are not bothered, don’t jump up, don’t bark, or even remain laying down.
Noise Maker – Take your set of keys, rattle them over the pup’s head and see how he reacts. You are looking for the dog that notices, but does not act scared and does not jump.

How to Raise a Puppy You Can Live With
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Siberian Husky, They do Grow

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Make Your Decision

Decide on Gender

Do All The Tests and Then. . .

After doing all these tests, make your choice. You want to pick the one that isn’t the most lethargic, unless you are looking for a very shy, passive, and possibly a couch potato because these dogs can be harder to train. You also don’t want the most hyper and dominant, as he too will be hard to train. You are looking for a dog in the middle, or the dog that displays interest in things but will remain calm. If there are several dogs in the litter with this type of temperament, then choose the gender you have your mind set on, if there is a choice, or the looks of the pup.[3]

Summary

Puppy decisions on how to choose a puppy can be difficult but choosing a puppy need not be overwhelming.