I’ve been thinking a lot about dog breeding, puppies, and my future in the world of dogs. Advising potential puppy buyers is one of my most important jobs as a breeder.
And the first piece of advice will be what people need to consider before getting a puppy. Responsible breeders should create responsible dog owners. A dog is a living being and messing with one’s life because of impulsive decisions is not cool at all.
Choosing the Right Breed For You
Once you have a sense of your lifestyle and living situation, do some research on different breeds to find one that fits your needs and preferences.
Look at breed characteristics like energy level, trainability, grooming needs, and health issues. Make a list of breeds that seem like a good fit and read up on their temperament and personality traits.
When choosing the right breed, find out the origin of what the breed was used for. Shepherd dogs, huskies and dachshunds are popular but they can be difficult to handle, and that’s because they all had specific use.
Choosing the right breed of dog is a big decision that requires careful consideration. Take your time, do your research, and be prepared to make a long-term commitment to the dog.
TAKE A ‘The Best Dog Breed for You’ QUIZ HERE
Where Can You Get a Puppy?
- Breeders: If you’re looking for a specific breed of dog, you may want to consider working with a reputable breeder. Make sure to do your research and find a breeder who is ethical and cares about the well-being of their dogs.
- Animal shelters: Animal shelters are a great place to adopt a dog. There are many shelters across the country that have dogs of various breeds and ages. Adopting a dog from a shelter can also help save a life and provide a loving home for a dog in need.
- Rescue organizations: There are many rescue organizations that specialize in specific breeds of dogs or specific types of dogs, such as senior dogs or dogs with special needs. These organizations often work with foster families to care for the dogs until they can find their forever homes.
Where NOT to Look For a Puppy
- Pet stores: Some pet stores sell dogs, but it’s important to be cautious when buying a dog from a pet store. Many pet stores get their dogs from puppy mills, which can cause serious health and behavioral problems.
- Online marketplaces: There are many online marketplaces, where you can search for dogs available for adoption in your area. These are often shady and linked to puppy mills.
Why Not Get a Puppy From Pet Stores or Marketplaces
- Scams: Online marketplaces can be a breeding ground for scams. Some sellers may take your money and never deliver the dog, or may provide false information about the dog’s health, temperament, or breed.
- Puppy mills: Many online sellers are actually puppy mills, which are large-scale commercial breeding operations that prioritize profit over the well-being of the dogs. Dogs from puppy mills can have serious health and behavioral problems, and supporting these operations only perpetuates animal cruelty.
Getting a dog from an online marketplace can be difficult to get accurate information about the dog’s history, health, and temperament. Without this information, it can be hard to know what you’re getting into and whether the dog is a good fit for your home and lifestyle.
Unlike reputable breeders and animal shelters, online sellers may not provide any support or resources after you bring your dog home. This can make it difficult to address any problems that arise or get advice on how to care for your new pet.
Choosing Between a Male And a Female Dog
Male dogs are generally larger and heavier than females. Males can be more aggressive and territorial and tend to mark their territory more often. They can be more difficult to train due to distractions and dominant behavior.
Female dogs are generally more independent but soft in nature, and less likely to engage in dominant behavior. Female dogs go into heat roughly twice a year, while males can be sexually active year-round.
I’ve had three male dogs and Halla is my first female. Based on that, Halla is so calm and collected compared to the boys.
What You Need to Know Before Getting a Puppy
Getting a puppy is an exciting experience, but it’s important to consider a few things before bringing a living being into your life.
Getting a puppy for your child as a gift is not a good idea. The responsibility of taking care of a dog is always on the parents. The decision to get a dog should be well-thought amongst the whole family.
Here is a list of different things you consider before getting a cute little puppy.
Owning a Dog Costs Money
Owning a dog can be expensive and feeding is the biggest monthly cost. If you want to buy treats for your puppy, that’s extra. If you want to make homemade treats check this post HERE!
Other than food and treats, you’ll need to budget for things like a leash, collar, or harness, dog bed, grooming supplies, dog first aid kit, toys, and more.
If you need dog training services down the line, those will cost anywhere from $50-$150 depending if it’s an online course, group classes, or private lessons.
You will also need to consider vet bills, including vaccinations, checkups, dental care, acute infections, and possible spaying or neutering.
Getting insurance for your dog can be a wise financial decision, but read all the fine print carefully.
Committing Time For the Dog
Bringing a puppy into your life is a long-term commitment. Dogs live anywhere from 10-15 years. You’ll need to be willing and able to provide for your dog’s needs for their entire life. This includes providing love, attention, and care, even when it’s inconvenient or difficult.
Puppies require a lot of attention and time, especially during the first few months. They need to be taken outside frequently for potty breaks, fed regularly, trained and socialized and played with to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Proper Living Space for the Puppy
You’ll need to consider whether your living situation is suitable for a dog. Do you have enough space for them to play and explore? Is your home safe for a curious and sometimes mischievous puppy?
Make sure to find out if there are any restrictions on pet ownership in your building or neighborhood. Big dogs and breeds that bark easily are not a good fit for living in an apartment.
Training And Socializing the Puppy
I would say this is the most laborious part of getting a new puppy. The prime socializing period for a puppy is when they are 8-12 weeks old. This time period should be used well and actively visit new places and meet new people.
Puppies need to be trained and socialized to become well-behaved and confident adult dogs. This will require time and effort on your part. You may also want to consider enrolling your puppy in obedience classes.
Conclusion
Getting a puppy can be a wonderful and rewarding experience, but it’s important to carefully consider whether you’re ready for the responsibility.
Before bringing a dog into your life, take the time to consider the time commitment, space and living situation, budget, training and socialization needs, and long-term commitment required.
By doing so, you’ll be better prepared to provide a happy and healthy home for your new dog and ensure that the experience is as positive as possible for both you and your new companion. Remember, owning a puppy is a big responsibility, but with the right preparation and commitment, it can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.
