Buying A Puppy: What To Consider

Every family loves the idea of having a dog and that doesn't mean single people shouldn't have a dog by the way. If you live with others ensure that you all agree about getting a puppy or a dog before rushing out and taking the plunge. Not including everyone on the decision can sometimes turn a little nasty. So discuss it first - always. Different dogs suit different abodes. For instance, it is unlikely that a Bull Mastiff would work out in a studio apartment with a couple of fragile fish tanks.

Here are some important facts to consider. You will need to walk or exercise your puppy or dog - not once a month but daily. If you have carpet, I hope that it's not white! It's cruel to get a long haired dog and live in a hot climate. Think about it, they are not bred for that environment. Equally, a short haired dog will suffer if it snows almost all year round in your area. Puppies and dogs are not naturally tidy. There will be a little picking up to do - often. Taking the time to train your puppy is essential - are you prepared to do this? You will not be able to go away for a week and leave a bag of food behind for the pup or dog to portion out for itself over that period. Many people forget that holidays need some thinking through when you have a pet.

As a relation or a friend of the family, think carefully about giving a pet as a gift to someone in that family and always discuss it initially with the parents or the heads of the household. There have been many instances where the puppy or dog have had to be returned or passed on because there was lots of love but not enough thought.

Exercising is a must. Don't make the mistake of thinking this is a 'do when you can requirement'. We all live healthier happier lives when we exercise regularly. Throw a ball or a stick. Labs are especially good for this because they instinctively return it. When you're walking your pup, don't be so inconsiderate as to not pick up the poop when it's dropped on someone's lawn or walkway. I told you there were responsibilities and this is one of them.

Believe it or not, there's a big difference between getting a male or female dog. Male dogs can become aggressive and you may need to have the dog desexed or neutered. If you have a female dog, every male dog in the area seems to know where you live and wants her phone number desperately. More accurately, male dogs will be hanging around often on walks if you have a female dog but if it becomes overwhelming, you can go to a Vet and have her desexed.

If it's one particular person in the house who wants a puppy or dog, then make sure they read this article and explain cleary the responsibilities that come with being a dog owner.

Here's where we get down to the nitty gritty. Make sure that the household budget can afford a dog. Here's a small list to consider: purchasing the dog, registering the dog, vaccinations, good food, collars, a lead, a dog basket or crate, dog mat, tennis balls and other toys etc. If you decide to go ahead, check out some of the dog pounds and farms in your region. Sometimes you can find the perfect companion with little outlay and perhaps save their life. Purebreds is worth another article but don't discount that alternative if you want to show your dog or get involved in breeding.