Perhaps you are considering adopting a puppy. Good for you! There are many puppies out there looking for a good and loving home. However, before rushing into what is bound to be a life-changing decision, there are a few points that you should consider beforehand. This brief article will touch upon three topics: 1) the adoption process; 2) popular breeds to consider; 3) things to do before bringing your puppy home. Adopting a puppy is a big commitment on your part in the way of time, money and energy. You need to do some homework and make sure that you and your family are ready to embark on this venture and get the wonderful furry friend that you’ve always hoped for.
The place to look for a puppy to adopt can vary quite a bit. This may be through a rescue and shelter agency or an adoption service. Make sure you take time to check into the background and reputation of your puppy provider. Sadly there are some unscrupulous vendors who take advantage of animals and treat them really poorly. The term “puppy mill” is something to avoid.
You will need to research the prices offered by your adoption provider. This should include the costs for proper vaccinations and spay or neutering services. For the longer term happiness and enjoyment of your new family member, you should also consider the costs of quality training and socialization classes. In addition, you will need to consider the longer term costs of veterinary visits to attend to the medical and health needs that your growing pet will require. Then, of course, are the costs of the basic items your new pet will need, such as collars, leashes, food and water containers, toys and nutritious puppy and dog food. Never underestimate pet insurance. It’s something that all good owners should consider before adoption. It can help your pets in times of need, but make sure that your finances aren’t bled dry.
When choosing the breed of puppy you are looking to adopt, there are a number of things to consider. Take a look at your living space. Do you have ample room for a large and energetic dog, or would a smaller and more mellow breed be more appropriate? Different breeds just have fundamentally different needs. This may vary regarding energy levels, needs for physical and mental stimulation, or medical needs (which may require a bigger cost investment over their lifetime). What follows is some information on popular breeds to consider:
Of course, there is nothing wrong with selecting a wonderful mutt! Oftentimes a puppy/dog of mixed breeds will have fewer heredity related health problems that come from inbreeding because they are more genetically diverse. The most important thing is to meet this puppy in person to make sure you have a connection. That, for all intents and purposes, cannot be researched, measured or defined.
In regards to bringing your new puppy home, you will need to do some planning ahead of time. Where will your new furry family member sleep? What furniture or rooms, if any, are off-limits? Make sure that all your family members know the rules you plan to implement. Consider that your puppy will need to be house broken. Where will your puppy go potty? Who is responsible for taking him or her out of the house? Who will clean it up? How will this part of his or her training/ socialization be done on a regular and caring basis?
You and your family really need to also think about how this new member to your family is going to fit, be happy, and bring enjoyment to his or her new home. What sort of space do you have for your new family member both indoors and out? How will you need to plan or re-arrange things such as furniture or gardens? Do you have the time every day to dedicate to him or her for training, play and loving? Also, how do you intend to manage the interaction of your children or other furry family members, if you have any, with the new arrival? Don’t forget that you may need to purchase many new items like food bowls, dog food, dog beds and toys!
