Dogs can make wonderful companions and they can provide security in your home. Even though many dog breeds are great with kids, but choosing the right dog breed, and bringing a puppy into your home is a big responsibility.
After a year or so of raising your puppy, you will have a full-grown adult dog on your hands. And in most cases, healthy dogs live at least ten years, many live even longer.
For instance, the Jack Russell Terrier is a dog that averages more than 15 years. So, before making a quick decision, take the time to think about whether you can make such a big commitment. If you think you can, then work on figuring what kind of dog will be the best fit for your lifestyle and your family.
What did You need To Put into Consideration Before Buying a Dog?
Before buying a puppy, there are several things you should take into consideration. Your dog will need plenty of time to be trained. He/She will need time to be socialized with other dogs. Your puppy will need to be fed regularly and properly. You will need to provide your new dog with the proper amount of exercise for its breed. You will need to provide your dog with security, and a space of its own.
An area in your home for sleeping during the day as well as a crate for night sleeping is preferable. Your cute little puppy dog will need regular veterinary care. And, sometimes that kind of care for dogs can be very expensive. So, ask yourself, can I make the financial and time commitments necessary to owning a dog?
Will I be able to offer a dog the home it deserves? Can I afford the dog supplies and dog toys necessary to maintain my dog’s happiness and health? If you have considered these points and answered yes to these questions, you may just be ready to think about finding your new dog.
First of all, where should you get your puppy or dog from?
Well, there are many breeds of dogs to choose from, so once you have an idea of the breed you might want, talk with a reputable breeder of that breed of dog. Tell the dog breeder about your lifestyle and what you expect in a dog. The breeder will be able to tell you if you should think about another breed of puppy.
Also, talk with friends who have the breed of dog you are thinking about, and read dog magazines and books to understand the dog breed fully before you make your decision. Information is your best friend when choosing a dog. This will keep you from having false expectations when you finally make the purchase.
We don’t recommend buying dogs from pet supply stores or so-called “puppy farms” as early weeks for a dog are important to producing happy, healthy, well-adjusted dogs. Puppies raised in a home environment similar to your own are always best.
And organizations such as the ASPCA here in the US, or The Blue Cross in the UK, are always looking for loving homes for puppies, and older dogs as well. If you can, ask to see your puppy with its mother, and in a home environment. Also, if you can, make several trips to the breeder and take your time watching the puppies before making your final decision.
There are some basic things to look for when deciding if a puppy is healthy or not. First of all, check to see if the puppy has bright eyes and a shiny coat. If a dog has a dull coat, or a pot belly, don’t choose it.
And, your veterinarian can tell you if your puppy looks healthy. He/she may also be able to look for and detect possible congenital defects which could cause major problems later in your dog’s life.
How to Choose A Good Natured Dog?
You may be wondering how to choose a good-natured dog. Well, a good-natured puppy will be active and playful. A disinterested dog is generally not a good sign. You should also probably not choose a nervous-looking dog. Puppies do sleep for long periods of time, but a puppy that appears sleepy all the time may not be as healthy as a dog.
A puppy that appears aggressive early on might tend to be more dominant and aggressive as an adult dog. As we already said, you should see about visiting the dog breeder multiple times to watch and interact with the puppies. This will give you a better idea of the individual dog’s personality and general well-being.
Feeding your new dog properly is very important
Puppies can usually be weaned from their mothers between eight and twelve weeks. You should feed your new dog the same type of dog food for at least a few days. When you introduce the diet your vet recommends for your dog, do so gradually. You may want to reward your dog often but do so with affirming words and touch.
Limit the number of dog treats you give. Very importantly, set a feeding schedule for your dog. This will help the dog to have healthy habits and will make potty training your dog easier. Be sure to follow the instructions on your dog’s food, and daily watch the condition of your dog. It’s never healthy to let your dog become fat.
Talk with your dog’s vet about the proper vaccinations your dog should have. Required Vaccinations vary from state to state in the US. Puppies have worms, and so regular treatment for worms is very important. We don’t want to give any real medical advice here, so simply consulting with your dog’s vet will help you with this part of your dog’s care.
Before you bring a new dog home, there are several basic things you should go ahead and buy. Food and water bowls, dog food, a warm dog bed, and any grooming equipment necessary to your breed. These things are all essential. Of course, you will want to buy some dog toys for your puppy as well.