Choosing a new puppy to bring into your home is a big decision. Here are some helpful hints and tips to making sure your new puppy is the right one. The first thing you need to do is research! This is the one step that is so often ignored when choosing a puppy, but is perhaps the most important step. Too often people choose their new puppy based on emotion, and not facts.

First things first, research the breed you want. I recommend an all breed
dog book at your library or local book store to help you in choosing a puppy. Get a book that gives details about the breed’s temperament, energy level, adaptability, size, train-ability, etc.

Many people will pick up a dog magazine to check out the dogs for sale advertisements in the back. The problem with using this method to choose a breed is that these ads are designed to sell you on that specific breed from a specific kennel. Instead of choosing the right breed for you, you may be swayed by a nice layout and a professional ad.

When researching dog breeds, take everything into consideration. For example, some large dogs do better in apartments than certain small dogs. Some small breeds do better with room to run and play and despite their small size wouldn’t do well in an apartment. Some dogs are very independent and are more difficult to train. There are grooming requirements to consider. Some dogs are prone to certain health problems. Learn these things about the different breeds before
you choose which one to purchase. When choosing a puppy, there is no such thing as too much research.

Once you have settled on the right breed it is now time to really buckle down and do your research. Now you’ve got to decide where to get this perfect dog.

This is a 4 part series by Ty Brown, check back tomorrow for Part 2.