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Are you considering getting a puppy? If you have never owned a dog before, it is important that you understand the responsibilities involved in raising a puppy so you will be more prepared to handle what is to come. It may also help some of you realize that perhaps a puppy just isn’t right for you. You may want to consider an older dog instead, or perhaps even a cat. Puppies take a lot of time and patience. There are going to be difficult times and many messes to clean up. But if you are prepared, you and your puppy will be much happier. And eventually the task of taking care of a puppy becomes easier as he learns the routines and rules of the house.
The first step before getting a puppy is to do research. You need to know what breed or breed mix is best for you and your family, whether your living situations can accomodate a pet, and finally, where you are going to get your puppy. Today’s article is about doing the research on what kind of dog or puppy to get. Later in the week we will talk about the other research that is needed. And later still, we will talk about the responsibilites involved in owning a puppy.
Research - What kind of dog or puppy to get
Before you decide on a breed, research dog breeds for their temperament, grooming requirements, and size. This will give you a lot of information on what to expect if you want a purebred dog. Don’t select a certain breed for superficial reasons until you have done your research on the breed and you are certain you can handle the responsibilities involved with that particular breed. You can get information on breeds from books, vets, various rescue groups and shelters, and from online sources such as blogs, articles, and forums. This will also help you learn about certain genetic diseases and health issues that are associated with certain purebreeds. JustDogBreeds.com is an excellent on-line source for getting information about specific breeds.
Most dog breeds can learn to get along with children and other pets, but some breeds tend to get along with them better than others. So if you have children or other pets, researching dog breeds will be very helpful.
You also need to condider if you can handle a dog which requires special grooming. If your dog is going to be mostly indoors, do you care if it is a breed that sheds? Do you want a dog that requires a periodic hair-cut? Will you take the time to periodically brush a long-haired dog?
The size and activity level of the dog your puppy is going to grow into is another thing to consider. You don’t want a large or highly energetic dog if you live in an apartment unless you plan on regularly taking the dog out for exercise. If you have children, the size and energy level of the dog may also be considered. Small children may not be good with a small dog and a large energetic dog may not be good for small children.
If you don’t care if your puppy is a purebred or not, knowing about breeds is still helpful. Sometimes it is easy to tell what sort of breed-mix a puppy is and this could help you in making your decision. Mixed breeds can also be good because your dog will most likely not have the genetic issues involved with purebreeds.
One Response to “Getting a Puppy - Part I (Research Dog Breeds)”
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October 25th, 2010 at 8:54 am
Pet care is a big responsibility. Every pet animals needs vaccinations at least once per year. Some doctors even recommend vaccinating pets every six months!The vaccines increase the lifetime of pets. Its essential to consult your local veterinary to determine what vaccines your pet might need.