Choosing a Pup

WHAT BREED SHOULD I BUY?

It is best to buy a breed/type of dog that best suits you and your lifestyle – what is fashionable should not enter into the equation! Here is a list of some of the factors to consider about yourself before making that decision.

How much time are you prepared to spend with your dog?Remember training, walking, grooming and washing will all require some regular time commitment. What happens when the novelty wears off?

How much money have you budgeted for?

Don’t forget that it is not just the initial purchase price. Like a mobile phone ‘running costs’ will be greater! And things can go wrong or accidents can happen. Ask us for a price list on veterinary services. Prevention is cheaper than cure.

What size is your backyard?

Big dogs need more space! Nuisance barking can cause problems with the neighbours and the council.

Do you intend to breed from your dog?Consider extra veterinary fees (ask about the average cost of caesarian section), and breeder’s service fees. Can you give the time? Do you have the space for perhaps ten hole-digging, plant-chewing 6 week old puppies?

What about holiday times? Ask some boarding establishments, or us, about boarding costs.

What size is your car? Will an adult Great Dane fit into your Mazda 121?

Have you a family; what are their ages; or do you intend starting a family?All these affect your future budget and time commitment.

Are you a keen gardener?
Puppy stage often means hole-digging and plant-chewing and therefore the bigger the dog.!!

• Size (fully grown)

• Length of hair

• Temperament

• Pedigree or cross bred

• Male or female

Use the internet to get more information about breed sizes. Remember you cannot generalise about temperament, all animals are individuals no matter what breed they may be, just look at humans! The best way to anticipate temperament is to look at the parents. Training from an early age that is Puppy Preschool will improve their temperament and teach you the basics of training.

It is preferable to obtain your new puppy from a registered breeder, or from a home breeder. Purchase from a pet shop, the pound, RSPCA, or the Animal Welfare League is an alternative but may be riskier from a disease point of view. It is also more difficult to predict temperament as you will not have been able to see the parents. You may also be buying someone else’s problem.

Breeders are generally very caring people and will take time to explain the ins and outs of looking after the pup. However after purchase I would urge you to take the advice of a veterinary surgeon – after all he is the animal health expert.

Becoming the owner of a dog is a responsibility. However by making a full commitment, a dog will bring you and your family many years of fun and enjoyment. Your dog in turn will give you years of love and affection, and that’s something that will cost absolutely nothing!

Good luck!