| Selecting a Dog » How to Choose a Puppy |
| Selecting the right puppy is serious business ? even though it?s also a lot of fun! There are many things to consider when making your selection, because this tiny little puppy is going to grow into a dog --- and dog ownership is a big responsibility. Just like in humans, the early stages of a dog?s life play a huge role in how it behaves in later years. So, if it?s at all possible, try to select your puppy from someone who can tell you about its history, its mother, and any health and behavioral aspects about its life thus far. This will be easy with a breeder, but not so easy if you?re selecting a puppy at a pet store or shelter whose personnel may not have been involved in the actual rearing of the pup. If you do have the opportunity to talk with the early caregiver, pay close attention to what they say ? and what they don?t say. You want to know that the puppies have been well-socialized and given special attention from an early age. This kind of care and interest will come through in how the person talks about the dam and the puppies. You should also try to learn at what age the puppy was weaned. It?s always best for weaning to progress as naturally as possible. Weaning too early or too abruptly can result in behavioral problems later on. Regardless of whether you get information about the puppy?s past, spend some time with it before making your decision. Don?t go by looks alone. All puppies are cute, but not all dogs are good to have around. As you watch and hold the puppy, take note of whether it seems healthy. Is it the right size for its age? Are its eyes and ears clean? Is its coat clean and healthy looking? Also, try to get a feel for its personality. Does it play well with the other puppies? Does it enjoy being held by you? See if the puppy is curious, shy, rambunctious, playful, inquisitive, or lazy. If any of these features jump out at you, decide whether this is a good fit for you. Of course, your training and affection will help shape the puppy into its future self, but by carefully watching and interacting on that first day, you may be able to detect certain traits that have already appeared and thus select the perfect puppy. |
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