By Joan Palmer and Bruce Sessions
Buying a puppy can be an enjoyable experience. Unfortunately, many puppies end up in animal control facilities because buyers give little advance thoughts to their purchase.
There are times when a dog cannot remain with a family. Owners may be divorced or sick, or financial circumstances may change and they cannot keep their pet. When you choose a dog, you assume responsibility for its life. It will need feeding, exercise, comfort, care and love.
Think before you buy.
There are many points to consider when choosing a dog. A small of large breed? A shorthair or longhair? An active or quiet dog?
The Golden Retriever is an all-purpose dog for a family. An Airedale Terrier, despite its size, does not need a great deal of space. The Dachshund hides a big park in a small body.
Toy dogs make devoted companions and defend their owners bravely. They are good choices for town dwellers, the elderly and people who do not like much exercise. Toy dogs are not suitable for young children, who may be too rough with them.
Boxers love children and so do St. Bernards, Old English Sheepdogs and spaniels. Most dogs are compatible, especially if they are brought up with children from puppyhood. Trouble may occur when a breed with a strong protective instinct begins to overguard the children.
Male or Female
An important decision is whether to buy a male or female. The female is preferred for competitive obedience work because she is usually more obedient than the male. Unlike the male, she is
Usually more obedient than the male. Unlike the male, she is usually uninterested in the sex act except during her season, or period of fertility. Some people enjoy the company of a male dog and prefer it to a female.
On the positive side of owning a female is her ability to reproduce. But it may be difficult to cope with her 21-day season every six months. It is possible to have her spayed to avoid unwanted matings. Spaying is irreversible.
Taking Your Puppy Home
When taking your puppy home, it must not be put down in the street or come in contact with other dogs until it has its shots. Carry it on this trip. Be sure the puppy has comfortable basket of unchewable substance at home. Have an identity tag engraved and put it on a collar, in case your puppy wanders off.
Be certain everyone in the family wants a pet. Never buy a dog as a present unless you are sure the recipient will appreciate the gift. Make sure you are permitted to keep a dog where you live. The decision to buy a dog should not be taken lightly. Much as you may admire and Afghan Hound, it may not adapt to life in a small apartment. An energetic terrier is probably not a suitable pet for an elderly lady. A Chihuahua is not the ideal dog for a hunter.
There are probably a number of breeds to suit your home and say of life. It is important to make the right choice, for your sake and the dog’s!
