So, You want to Buy a Puppy?
First of all, do some research. Visit the AKC Website:
They have wonderful information about all the more than 150 breeds of registered dogs recognized by the AKC. Review your lifestyle and what type of dog would fit into your lifestyle. If you have small children, you might want to get a sturdier dog. If you live in an apartment, some breeds are more suited to that than others. Some need lots of attention, and some don't. Some shed, and some don't. Some need lots of grooming, some need minimal grooming, and some don't need any. Some have docked tails and cropped ears, and some have long tails that will knock you over.
If you don't want a lot of shedding or any grooming, pick a short-haired variety. If you want a dog you can brush, clip, tie bows onto, and pamper in general, then get a poodle, a Yorkie, or maybe a Schnauzer. Decide what the dog will be for. Do you want a watch-dog? Watch dogs don't have to be large, they just have to bark. Most small dogs are excellent at that. Do you want a guard dog? Then you want a large dog who is capable of protecting you if the need arises. Do you want a hunting dog, a livestock guard dog, or a herding dog? Do you just want a pet? Do you want a dog to show in competition? Do you want a companion for another pet you own? If so, decide whether you want to breed them or not. If not, buy same-sex companions or have them neutered by a veterinarian.
Are you willing to take the time and effort it requires to potty train? Puppies require care, feeding, love, and companionship. They also require that you take vaccinations, wormers, flea protection, heartworm protection, and regular veterinary care to keep them in good health? If you are not willing or able to provide all that, you might want to get a different type of pet that does not require so much care.
Once you decide you really want a dog, and which breed will fit in with your family and your lifestyle, then investigate breeders. Ask a breeder if they sell to brokers and/or pet stores. If so, steer clear of that breeder. Brokers and pet stores perpetuate "puppy mills". If it were not for brokers and pet stores and people who buy puppies because they feel sorry for them, the puppy mills would go broke. Buy from a responsible breeder, who breeds for quality and not quantity. Carefully research before you buy. Research the breeds, the breeder, how to train your pet, and how to care for your baby once you get one. Find a good vet BEFORE you get a puppy.
A Note to Our Website Customers
Recipe for Puppy Pie (Train Your Puppy)
5/22/03~08/25/03