Before you make the decision to buy a puppy for your family or for someone else there are many things to research, learn and consider. Purchasing a companion animal should never be a surprise gift to another person. If someone you know wants to consider a pet, think about getting them a book on breeds, a gift certificate for products, vet services or adoption fees. Also, consider the time of year, it’s not always fun standing outside at 4am working on potty training!
Make sure you (or the other person) can adequately afford a new puppy. Beyond the obvious, like puppy vaccinations, a spay or neuter, and supplies, there are several other things to budget in. Will you get Pet Insurance? What about quality dog food or pet training? What breed are you thinking about and do they tend to have health issues? Does this particular breed need special exercise requirements or are you thinking of getting involved in fly ball, agility training or service and therapy work?
A peteducation.com article shows the average cost of a 50 pound dog in the mid-west is $1977 for the 1st year. (The range was from $511 to $6600.) After the 1st year the average cost is $807, this is with no health problems.
How do you choose the right breed for you? There are many resources available for you. You can do internet research, purchase books, or work with a professional that will help you narrow down your choices on best breed personalities for your lifestyle. Once you have several breeds narrowed down, make sure you talk to your friends and family that know you best, for their realistic opinion on the breeds you are thinking about. If you are not an active, outdoors type of person an active breed would not be a great fit for you. Just because you like that breed or personality, it still may not be the right one for you. Dogs live for many years so try to think five or ten years down the road also.
When we are talking about breeds, don’t forget mixed breeds, a great resource is petfinder.com where you can search for the breed you want but mixed with another breed that makes them just the best of both worlds! You may also decide that an older dog is a better fit for you versus a 8-10 week old puppy. You can get a younger dog that’s a few months old and already potty-trained. If you have questions, many trainers and professionals are willing to help you.
When you go to look at puppies, BE PATIENT! All puppies are dog-gone cute! Just remember to do your homework and stay the course. Keep your mind open to possibilities but remember that what fits you best, will be best for everyone!!
So, you’ve decided you can afford a new addition, and you’ve picked the right breed for you and your family. You have even found that perfect bundle of joy, now what? On your list of priorities should be your veterinarian exam and vaccinations, socializing your puppy, and potty training. Remember that consistency is KEY!
How do you feel about crate training? Crate training is an excellent way to give your puppy it’s own private bedroom area where he/she can be safe from getting into trouble and this is a proven great training aid for potty training. Keep the door to the crate open and get your puppy just to go in and get toys or treats without confining them. Train your puppy to the crate by starting with short times in the crate with a yummy, activity toy such as a peanut-butter stuffed toy. Keep in mind, that it’s unreasonable to think you can leave a puppy for an extended time in the crate both for potty and socialization reasons. Crate training is not for punishment but a safe-haven for your puppy. If you have decided that Holiday break is a great time to get your puppy, remember that when kids go back to school and you go back to work or activities, you may need some assistance on a daily or weekly basis from a dog walker or pet sitter. The guidelines for crate confinement are one hour for every month of age + one hour (depending on the breed and maturity level of your pup ~ it’s better to error on the shorter side of the time) Also, try to tire your pup out before crating them for best results!
What are your goals with your new dog? Do you want the ability to take them anywhere and everywhere? The best mannered dogs have a much better chance to get to travel and see so much more than just their back yard. This takes a lot of hard work on the pet parents part but is so worth it. Make sure you socialize your puppy and work from the moment you get home on that outcome that will create a fulfilling relationship for both of you. Find like-minded pet owners in a Training Classes in your area. There are even great basic classes for adult adoptees! Young or old, make sure you think through this decision carefully. Consider the “3 C’s”- Compassion, Consistency and Confidence and you will provide a forever home for your new pet.
Article written by Dawn Olson and Fran Menley
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