So you have decide you want a cute puppy or older dog. They make wonderful companions and pets for families, however, they will be a permanent part of your life for a long time.
To start off you need to decide if you want a puppy or a full-grown dog. A puppy needs to be housebroken and given obedience training. With an older dog you can see what you are getting. You know what his coat, size and personality is. A older dog is housebroken, usually has had obedience training, is less destructive and has house manners. He may, however, have some behavioral or health problems.
Before you go out and buy that puppy or dog ask yourself some questions first.
What breed fits your lifestyle? Do you want an active dog or a lap dog?
Can you afford a dog? Remember, besides food you have vaccinations and maybe vet bills.
Do you have the patience to train a puppy? Maybe an adult fully-trained dog would be better.
Do you have space for a dog? If so what size of dog would fit best?
Do you have children and what age are they? You need to consider the size of the dog because
children can accidently injure some small dogs. Some dogs don't get along well with children either.
Do you have time to exercise a dog? Some require a lot of exercise while some require very little.
Do you work all day? Some dogs don't do well if left alone all day.
Do you have other pets? Will they get along?
Some dogs need a lot of grooming while some require very little.
Decide what breed you want or are interested in and find out the temperament and characteristics of that breed. If buying a pure bred buy from a reputable dog breeder. Contact as many kennels as possible to learn all you can about a peculiar breed. Often a good breeder has a waiting list but they are the safest to buy from.
The health of the puppies is the most important thing. Breeders should provide you with the necessary papers that confirm the pup came from a health certified parent. Know what possible health issues the breed has that you want and question the breeder. A breeder should be available to answer all your questions.
If you get an adult dog from a shelter he should have received preventive health care and checked for heartworm.
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