Getting a puppy the right way is more common sense that specific process.
As with most endeavors these days, we tend to over think most things.
You know what I mean.
Haven't you spent hours "googling" websites, product reviews and article comparisons, only to purchase the product you had originally preferred anyway? The difference here, obviously, is that we are dealing with a small, living animal and a very big personal commitment.
So, let's take a common sense, practical look at what should be taken into account when adding a puppy to your life.
What is your motivation for bringing a puppy into your world? You should spend some quality time thinking about the reason you feel the need or want to do this.
The right answers are many; companionship, protection, assistance, etc.
There are wrong answers though.
Puppies are not Christmas, Easter, Birthday or Graduation gifts for the sake of giving a gift.
They are not to be status symbols or trophy toys.
Nor are they brought into a home to help mend a relationship or make up for past indiscretions.
You want a puppy as much for what you can do for it as much as what it can do for you.
In today's politically correct society, it seems that if you do not rescue your dog, you have somehow broken a sacred trust.
There is a time, place and reason for all things and sourcing your puppy is no exception.
Rescuing of an animal is God's work.
If you are comfortable doing this, do it.
There is a place for breeders and purebred puppies, too.
You be your own judge.
Keep in mind that Mixed Breed Dogs are recognized by the AKC (American Kennel Club).
They can and are often wonderful, loving companions.
On the other hand, purebred dogs can provide predictability and consistency, which may be your preference.
Look, the perfect puppy doesn't exist.
But neither does the perfect owner.
Lifestyle: How you live your life should very much determine the best dog breeds for you or, in-fact, if you should have a dog at all.
There are breeds that adapt to just about any type of lifestyle or service need.
Are you a hunter? Do you like to take walks everyday? Need assistance moving about? Like to have something at your feet while you play chess, knit or watch the game? Are you just plain looking for a companion? There is a dog for you.
Remember though, acquiring a puppy only to leave it alone for many hours at a time is not providing it with the socialization, interaction, exercise or companionship it needs.
It is a two way street, in this matter.
Bottom line is that if you are unable to be available or prefer not to be very involved, get a turtle.
Environment: It is not always true that if you can live where you live, so can a puppy.
Keep in mind that we, as humans, have superior intellect, decision making capabilities and perceptions.
Sure, a dog can out smell us and out run us but can it determine whether it is acceptable to eat or drink what it found on the kitchen floor? No it can not! As pet owners, we are responsible for providing a safe home for our puppy.
A puppy is like a baby in that it has not developed the practical experience, through trial and error mostly, to decide what is safe or not.
Therefore, it is totally dependent on its owner.
Be proactive and vigilant about providing your puppy with a safe and fun place to grow.
Also, there will be puppy development stages.
It will grow physically and emotional; sometime very quickly, so be ready to adapt and change with you little charge.
Sharing your Pastimes & Passions: This is more important than you might think.
I know it too is obvious but really, imagine a Shih Tzu ducking hunting or a Golden Retriever on you lap.
Match you passions with your new puppy and your quality of life will go through the roof.
Take the time to review that type of things you enjoy doing.
Then, match those breeds to your interests.
Believe me, there is a breed any type of activity you may be interested in.
Take the extra time to do this.
You will not regret it! Practical Considerations: There are some things that you need to account for when getting a puppy.
Allergies are particularly important.
Dogs that excrete an inordinate amount of saliva or shed excessively or at all may not be candidates for people with this problem.
Breeds do exist that do not do either of these and would be potential choices.
In these cases, it would be advisable to spend some time with a breeder to determine, if in-fact, a particular breed isn't causing problems.
Additionally, size can be an issue.
Obviously, if you live in an apartment or small dwelling with little area to exercise, certain dog breeds would not be good candidates.
Some dogs do not thrive in the heat others thrive in cold weather.
Some dogs can be less that "sharp" while others will out smart you.
Some are great with children, other dogs and grown ups but there are some breeds that are not.
With a little research into breed characteristics will go a long way towards making the right choice.
Finances: Inevitably, we have come to the topic of money.
Yes, a puppy will cost you.
Whether it is a rescue, stray or purebred, get ready to open the wallet.
It is your responsibility to provide a healthy home for your puppy.
That means proper meals, chew toys, sleeping arrangement, crates, leashes, regular medical attention, grooming etc.
If you can not afford it, do not do it.
Period! Getting a puppy should be fun and even exciting.
Do some research.
Spend some quality time assessing your motivations, preferences and passions.
You are about to embark on a 10-15 year relationship that will require commitment, involvement, kindness, discipline and compassion.
Effort for sure but the rewards will be far beyond your expectations.