Picking the right puppy for your family is a very important task. It is not something that should be left up to the children, either. Adults should thoroughly research each breed that is being considered to narrow down the choices of suitable puppies. Things that should be taken into account include the breed's temperament, maintenance and grooming needs, and the family's environment and lifestyle.
- When you arrive at the home or business where puppies are being sold, you should take note of the kennel's cleanliness. If the kennel is unkempt, smelly and dirty, you can safely assume that the mother dog may not be in the best health.
- Thoroughly look over the mother dog. However, keep in mind that most mother dogs may appear thin. This is common, especially during the weaning process. If the mother dog is malnourished, you will know it. If she is, you should not purchase a puppy from her litter. If the mother dog is overly aggressive toward you, you may also want to reconsider a puppy from her litter.
- When looking at the puppies, you should observe them before you pick them up. How the puppies play and act will tell you a lot about them. You should easily be able to pick out the dominate puppies in the litter, as well as ones that may be too rough or who are very shy. This is important information for you.
Are you going to take your dog camping every weekend or will he be an indoor, apartment dog? If you want a dog that is going to be a guard dog, the shy dog cowering in the corner may not be the best choice. However, if you want a dog that is good with children, you should not choose the alpha male, or the shy dog. Alpha males may not take kindly to their territory being invaded. Shy dogs may startle around very small, excited children and snip at them. You should look for a middle of the line puppy....
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Author: W Jackson