How To Search For That Perfect Puppy.

I tell anyone that I talk to that has a new puppy, they are in "puppy boot camp." I say that with kindness, though. I honestly think most people have no idea what it takes to raise a happy, healthy, well socialized puppy, into a fabulous adult, companion animal.

Picking out the correct breed, if you are set on a purebred, is paramount to both you and the pup being happy together. (I personally think breed rescues or shelters are the way to go.) Make a list of the characteristics you are looking for. i.e. laid-back, doesn't shed, etc. The correct size for you family is a must. If you live in a small house or apartment/condo, you don't want a Great Dane.

Study about each breed are interested in. This is a must. If you have anyone with allergies in the household, that needs to be taken into consideration. Things like that are so important. I hear so many stories of people that buy a dog, just to have to give it away or put it down, because of allergies. Yes, put down. I know of people that just had the dog put down. Cruel, but so true. Go to www.dogchannel.com/breedfinder to help with finding that perfect dog.

The best way to find a dog is to check out all the shelters, breed rescues, going to a dog show, contacting the local kennel club or talking to other dog lovers that you know. Our local club is http://www.huntingtonkennelclub.org/.

Now, you have selected the perfect dog, what is next. Supplies! The correct puppy food is essential. Puppies need more protein than adult dogs due to they are growing and burning lots and lots of energy. If the breeder or shelter is feeding a good food and not something like Ol'
Roy, continue with that food. If you or your vet feels that the food needs to be changed, make sure it is puppy or a growth formula food. A crate is the next purchase. I have a post on crate training on this blog in the archives. Most dogs love to sleep in their crates at night or for short periods during the day, Dogs are pack animals and den animals, so a crate is like home to them.

ID tags or a microchip is next. A chip is great as it holds all the vital info about your dog and your address and phone #'s. Fit you pup with a good collar and leash. Getting an adjustable collar is the best way to go. That way, you don't have to buy a collar every other week. Toys are a must and a good comb, if you have a pup with a long coat.

Puppy-proofing your home is a must. Prepare your schedule ahead of time. Learning will go faster if you have your pup on a schedule-and stick to it!! House train from day one. And, be consistent. Remember, you have a baby, be easy and don't get stressed out. You will end up taking it out on the dog. And, regular vet visits are a must, too. You have to get all the vaccinations for you puppy. If you have a puppy that requires grooming, I suggest finding a good groomer in your area and taking the pup at 12 wks. old for the first groom. Last, but not least, a good, group obedience class.

If you do what I suggest, you will have a happy, well-adjusted puppy, and you will be happy, too.