Guide to Getting a Dog. Congratulations on your determination to purchase a pooch. Now it’s the moment to decide which pup is the most suitable fit for your lifestyle. Picking a puppy can be thorny.
At first look, all species may appear alike. Nevertheless, each puppy has their unique characteristics and manners.
This handbook explains how to choose a puppy. It has all you need to find the perfect furry friend for your home. Most of us know that the conclusion to get a dog is a difficult one during ordinary times, therefore after 2019 life has changed.
This writing will assist you to think through whether now is the right time to get a doggy into your life.
How To Pick The Right Dog Breed
Your Guide to Getting a Dog for a Happy Life!
There are more than a hundred breeds on our planet at the moment. Therefore. Rare moments in life are as significant as the moment you bring home a new pup.
Determining which puppy to purchase is a major decision that comes with a lot of responsibility. Sadly, many puppies end up in shelters. This happens because their owners did not think about the dog’s needs before bringing them home.
That’s why you must ask the correct questions before you pick a pup.
What made you think you want a dog?
Your Guide to Getting a Dog for a Happy Life!
Of all the questions that future dog owners should ask themselves, the most meaningful is “Why do I want a dog?” If your response sounds anything like, “Because I noticed an adorable puppy in the pet store,” then you should not get a puppy. Doggies are not a fashion statement. They are living, breathing creatures who feel and love as deeply as any human. Therefore, any decision to buy a puppy must be constructed on the next bases.
- Friendship – Puppies are extremely social animals who thrive on human companionship. If your lifestyle takes you away from home most days, then you might not have enough time to commit to a new companion. That is unless you buy a small breed to take with you everywhere, like a Yorkie or a Chihuahua.
- Socialization – Puppies are a wonderful way to connect with other people. For people living alone, a puppy can increase contact with the outside world while providing meaning and structure to one’s life. Boston Terriers and French Bulldogs are very friendly. They are a great choice for anyone wanting a sweet puppy. These dogs can help you get out of the house.
- Training – Every dog needs exercise, and a puppy can help you get the exercise you need to stay fit. Breeds like the Siberian Husky are great for runners and bikers. But if you like to swim, then a Labrador Retriever may be right for you.
- Youngsters – Youngsters learn life skills like compassion, responsibility, and patience by caring for a puppy. Parents should set realistic expectations. They should also watch all interactions between the puppy and children. This is important until both are old enough to be alone together.
- Partner for Existing Dog – Puppies are incredibly social creatures and often appreciate the company of other dogs. Sometimes, two dogs can be easier and more fun than one. But every dog is an individual, and some breeds do not play nicely with others. If you are unsure if your dog will like a new dog, talk to a professional before getting a puppy.
- Empty (Broken) Soul – One of the best excuses to get a new puppy is that your last dog passed away. A home can feel empty without a dog to fill it with life and love. If your last dog has passed away and you want a new puppy, consider a Sheepadoodle or a Bichon Frise. These breeds are known to bring joy to any room they enter.
What about Kids?
Your Guide to Getting a Dog for a Happy Life!
Puppies are excellent for children. Both as an origin of unconditional love and a way of teaching obligation, understanding, cooperation, and tolerance. When selecting a puppy for your children, consider your lifestyle, their ages, and especially their allergies.
Some of the sweetest, most kid-friendly breeds shed profusely, making it difficult to manage allergy symptoms at home.
Other breeds are completely hypoallergenic but prefer the company of adults over children. Most dogs do well with regular training. However, you may need to teach your children basic dog safety.
It’s also important to show them the best ways to interact with their new puppy. That said, you shouldn’t have any trouble with these kid-friendly dog breeds:
Are You Travelling much?
Your Guide to Getting a Dog for a Happy Life!
Sadly, many puppies end up in shelters because their owners did not realize how much time it takes to care for them.
If you work at home with little to do outside of work, then a puppy might be the right way to shake things up. On the other hand, people who travel for work or have odd hours may not have time. They might not be able to give the personal and emotional connection that your puppy needs and wants.
But a hectic career does not preclude you from owning a dog, you just have to find a low-maintenance breed, like:
Where would you bring you new pooch?
Many dog breeds can live almost anywhere. However, some breed traits can prevent certain dogs from living in specific places. A Great Dane, for example, will find it difficult to navigate a small apartment without bumping into things.
That’s why it’s important to think about your dog’s size and exercise needs. You should also consider if you can meet those needs in your current living situation. If you live in the country, you probably have more space. This is good for active breeds like the Border Collie or the Australian Shepherd.
Those in cities and suburbs, on the other hand, might have to drive some distance to a dog park to make it work. The trick to choosing the best dog for where you live is to choose a breed that can adapt to the climate and the environment.
Can You Keep Up With Its Exercise Needs?
Meeting your puppy’s exercise needs is essential for dog ownership. Many future dog owners often overlook this important aspect. Some dogs need frequent, vigorous bouts of exercise to stay fit, satisfied, and mentally healthy.
Other breeds, Shih Tzu were developed specifically for sitting in laps and lounging around all day long. As an owner, you need to decide what activities you can handle. Then, choose a dog that fits those needs.
Your Guide to Getting a Dog for a Happy Life!
Can You Accommodate the Dog's Size?
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a puppy is its adult size. Though many puppies start very small, they grow quickly and become too big for their owners to accommodate in their current living space.
Ironically, large dog breeds end up in shelters less often than medium-sized breeds, like the German Shepherd. This is because owners of large breeds usually know what to expect before they buy.
That’s why it’s best to consult with an expert if you are uncertain how large a dog will be as a fully grown grown-up.
Check the price before you Buy! Can you afford it?
Your Guide to Getting a Dog for a Happy Life!
Now that you know why you want a puppy and what your lifestyle can handle, it’s time to think about what you can afford. Caring for some dog breeds costs more than others. However, there is a basic cost of ownership. You need to afford the cost of caring for a dog for its whole life.
The minimum cost of owning a dog includes veterinary, food, and grooming expenses. It also covers supplies, toys, and puppy-proofing items. These are all needed to keep your dog safe, happy, and healthy.
The AKC estimates that owning a dog costs between $14,480 and $15,051. This cost depends on the dog’s size and life expectancy.
Select the Right Breeder
Your Guide to Getting a Dog for a Happy Life!
At this point in the puppy choosing process, you’ve determined why you want a dog as well as the breed that best fits your lifestyle. Now it’s time to determine where you are going to purchase your new puppy.
Though there are many places to purchase a puppy, prospective owners should avoid puppy mills at all costs. Instead, pick a responsible puppy service like PuppySpot. They have a screening process with over 100 points for each puppy and its parents.
PuppySpot has created new standards that are much higher than federal and state rules. So, you can be sure that your new puppy is happy and healthy from the moment you bring it home. Contact PuppySpot today to speak to a puppy concierge about choosing the best puppy for your family.
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Note: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease. Always consult a healthcare professional before taking any supplement or making any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
