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Finding a Dog Breeder for the Perfect Puppy
A good way to begin finding the "perfect puppy" is to decide
what kind of dog you want. Think about what type of dog would be
suitable for you and your family. A large dog? Medium? Small?
What type of temperament would you like in your dog?
Enthusiastic and exuberant all the time? More independent and
aloof? Something in between these two types?
What about hair length? Shorthaired dogs? Longhaired dogs? A
quick tip: longhaired dogs require regular grooming and can be
high maintenance.
Another thing to consider is that different dog breeds have
genetic health issues.
Larger dogs are susceptible to hip dysplasia. This is a
degenerative disease that affects the hip joint. When a dog with
hip dysplasia matures, the hip joint and socket can no longer
bear the animal's body weight. The dog will have a difficult
time running, walking or even standing. The only cure for this
condition is surgery.
Smaller breeds of dogs have genetic concerns of their own. Dogs
that are in the "toy" breed category, such as the Pug, the
Pekingese and Lhasa Apso, are prone to breathing problems. These
dogs have a short muzzle (or nose), which affects sinus and
nasal development. Breathing problems are oftentimes not evident
in a puppy. They become apparent only as the dog matures.
Once you decide what type of dog you think you want, find people
who own that kind of dog. Go to the pet store and talk to the
people there. Buy some books and magazines about the dog breed
you like.
Do research on the Internet about the kind of dog you are
considering. There are forums online about most types of dogs
where you will get all the information you want from pet owners.
People love to talk about their pets!
All this background work is important to become an educated
consumer BEFORE you buy your dog from a breeder.
Now you are ready to find a reputable dog breeder. What should
you look for in a dog breeder?
Honest dog breeders will be more than happy to answer every
question you may have about their dogs.
Good breeders care about the dog's environment. Note if the dog
breeder's facilities are clean? Are the puppies well cared for?
What type of puppy food do they use? Have the puppies had their
shots? Breeders should provide a complete record of the pup's
healthcare since birth.
Beware of breeders who are interested only in making money. They
generally don't pay much attention to their dog's emotional
needs and health concerns. This type of non-caring breeder
profoundly affects the kind of dogs puppies will become. A
puppy-mill environment only means trouble.
If you have doubts about a breeder you are thinking of doing
business with, ask around at rescue groups or animal shelters
about the breeder's reputation.
Reputable breeders love their animals and go to great lengths to
provide a proper environment and healthcare for their puppies.
Puppies are products of their surroundings. A good, clean and
caring environment will assure a happy, healthy pup.
Doing your homework first will go a long way towards finding
that perfect puppy!
About the author:
Lee Dobbins writes for E
Pet Center where you can learn more about dogs.
Learn about...
Selecting a New Dog
When selecting a new dog to take home there are many things tothink about and to take into consideration. For instance, thebiggest question to ask yourself is why you want a dog? Do youhave children who have been begging you for one, or have youdecided you need a dog outside to warn of intruders?. . .
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