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Accessories You Need Before Bringing A Puppy Home
There are accessories you need before bringing a puppy home. You want to be able to have all the things he will need to make him comfortable and feel at home. These are the first items that you puppy will know are his, so he knows right from the beginning what he can chew, rest on, sleep on, play with and eat from.
Pet accessories are an important part of taking care of your dog. Generally we use accessories to accentuate the beauty of things. When it comes to pet care accessories are used to protect your pet from harmful elements. You can also gain a lot of satisfaction from buying accessories for you pet.
There is a wide variety to choose from and you might wonder where to start, particularly if this is your first pet. Here are some tips on what to look for when choosing accessories for your pet:
1. Food And Water Bowls:
The most important thing about choosing good bowls is that they are not easily tipped over. You will probably want to check that especially the water bowl is pretty sturdy. It’s vital that your dog has free access to water at all times and one of the ways people are doing this is by buying large water systems for their pets. Much like human watering systems these will keep your dog with fresh water for longer. It is especially important to remember that with large and extra large dogs that they need bowls that have stands to the appropriate height for that breed. Large dogs a prone to a condition called bloat. The elevated stands help prevent this.
2. Dog Collar:
Whether you want a plain or fancy variety – collars are important and will be an item you use daily. This means the comfort and fit are important. Experts recommend a space between the dog’s neck and the collar to be at least 2 fingers wide. A collar should never be too loose or too tight. Make sure you get a good fit and take your dog along when you buying a collar.
3. Dog Leash:
It’s not hard to choose a leash – you just want to keep in mind that it needs to be strong enough to hold your dog. Leashes are often sold clearly marked with the breeds the leash is suitable for. Some people like to have 2 leads, one that is retractable and a regular leash, this way they can still keep their dog on a lead but it can basically run free up to its length and one to just walk with. A retractable lead comes in handy when you are someplace that doesn’t allow dogs to run free.
4. Grooming Accessories:
Depending on the kind of breed you have the amount of grooming accessories needed will vary. If you have a dog that will need relatively little grooming, that is with a short coat, then you will need only a basic toolkit. You will need things like dog shampoo, dog clippers, styptic powder, dog toothbrush, dog toothpaste (toothbrush and toothpaste can be optional, not everyone does this for their dog), dog brush or comb. These are the basics. There are many other products you can use to keep your dog clean and fragrant. If you have a more high maintenance dog you will need these plus a wider variety of brushes and combs to care for your pets coat and grooming needs.
5. Dog Houses:
If your dog will be sleeping outside then it’s important that they have their own place for shelter. A dog house will keep your dog out of the harsh sunlight or rain or even snow. When choosing a dog house try to choose the right size. The dog should fit snuggly inside with enough space to move around.
6. Dog Beds:
If your dog will be spending time inside it’s also a good idea to buy a dog bed. If you’ve crate trained your puppy than this is the ideal place to put a dog bed. This gives your dog a ‘retreat’ and they will value having their own comfy space where they can go when cold or sleepy. Again just try to choose the right size. Many dog beds are designed for specific breeds so you won’t have a problem finding a bed for your dog.
7. Dog Toys And Treats:
Most dogs love playing, and just like children, love being spoilt. It is especially important if you are away for long periods of time that your dog has something to play with. It’s best to give them a variety of toys; this will keep them away from your slippers and shoes!
Again the most important thing is the size. Treats and toys should be size appropriate. If the toy is too big they won’t be able to play with it and it won’t be fun for anyone. There is a wide variety of toys for you dog to chew, play and bite. Spend some time choosing some fun toys for your dog.
These are just some of the most important accessories you will need for your dog. There are many more things you could buy your dog but the items on this list for your dog should have everything he needs to be a healthy, happy dog.
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May 17, 2011 | | Adopting A Puppy
Daddy, Can I Have A Puppy?
Sooner or later, every parent is likely to hear: “Please, can I have a puppy?”
Rather than dodge the question, parents should consider whether their family is ready for a puppy. Parents should weigh the pros and cons of adding a puppy to the household before agreeing to a child’s request.
A pet can teach children responsibility and become a wonderful addition to a family-or it can be a burden. Families should consider the following before deciding:
Who will care for the dog? – Families should agree beforehand who will be responsible for feeding, walking, bathing and cleaning up after the puppy. A child has to remember that a cute little puppy grows up to be an adult dog and sometimes not so little anymore.
Do you have space for a pet? – Families living in apartments or townhouses may prefer a cat, a bird or fish, rather than a Labrador Retriever. Check the library or Internet to learn more about different types and breeds of dogs to determine the one most suitable for your family.
Owning a pet is time consuming and may be expensive. – Family members should realize that they may have to give up other activities to properly care for a pet.
If the prospect seems too daunting, parents may suggest waiting until the child is old enough to help care for an animal. If considering adopting a dog the whole family should meet the animal before deciding to take it home. Owning a pet is a long-term commitment, so think carefully before adopting a furry new family member.
So when you hear “Daddy, Can I have a puppy?”, think before you answer and be sure having a dog is what you really want. A dog can be a wonderful addition to your family but if you’re not ready for the expense and responsibility it wouldn’t be fair to you and your family or to the dog or puppy.
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Apr 08, 2011 | | Adopting A Puppy
Puppy Buying Dilemma: Pet Shop Or Breeder
The puppy buying dilemma is pet shop or breeder. Which is the best route to go and what are the pros and cons of each. Knowledgeable pet owners, when approached by a novice with the question of where to buy a pet, usually recommend buying from a breeder rather than from a pet shop.
The advantages of the breeder-bought pet are many, yet the disadvantages of dealing with these breeders are often so discouraging that many prospective buyers resort to purchasing their pets through retail establishments.
In this article, we would like to explore the advantages and disadvantages of dealing with each: the breeder or the pet shop.
Pet Shops: The Dungeons Of Pet Suppliers?
Most people envision the average pet shop as a dark, dank, far from fragrant place where animals suffering from a variety of ills, crowded into small, stuffy cages, can be bought for outrageous prices. Sadly, this is all too often the case.
The pup you buy in a pet shop is often bloated with worms, teary-eyed, sniffling and, what is far worse, not inoculated. Little or no health guarantee is offered and the prices charged for pet quality animals in a pet shop can sometimes purchase a breeding, or even show quality animal, via a reputable breeder.
Pups (and kittens too), are frequently sold at five and six weeks of age – far too early for these extremely delicate infants to be placed in new homes, much less in a disease-filled pet shop.
Then too, little practical advice is given new owners on the care and feeding of the newly acquired pet. The new “parents” are left strictly to their own devices to raise their young pups. The pet shop owner is frequently unqualified to acquaint owners with the peculiarities of whatever breed they have purchased.
There Is Some Good News Here
On the positive side of pet shops, we must list, first and foremost, availability. Puppies are on the premises, ready to be bought and, for the right price, the purchaser can immediately take home any pup he desires.
Variety, too, is a significant factor, especially for those buyers who have not definitely decided what breed of dog they want to own. Then too is the lure of all those delightful pet accessories with which the average owner immediately overwhelms his new pet with.
And, when buying a purebred puppy from a pet shop, the new owner generally receives his registration and/or pedigree papers immediately with no lengthy waiting period involved.
The 2 Breeder Types
There are, on the other hand, essentially two types of breeder: the “professional” breeder and the “backyard” breeder.
The former may have one or several brood females, using his own or other complementary lines as a stud. He is well-versed in genetics, especially those factors dealing with his own favorite breed. He is usually deeply involved in the show circuit, spending great amounts of time and money to show his line of dogs.
The backyard breeder owns a purebred female of undetermined – and frequently unquestionable – quality who does not necessarily even have “papers” to prove her purebred ancestry.
He breeds his dog, usually a family pet, to a neighborhood male whose background and quality do not usually concern him, with no regard to complementary genetic factors, temperament, or lineage.
His pups are usually priced considerably lower than those of the professional breeder, but they can in no way compare in quality of appearance and temperament with those bred by the professional.
Dealing with the backyard breeder is similar in many ways to dealing with the pet shop. The pups are sold at an early age – sometimes without some or all of their inoculations. His pups may be unstable in temperament and unpredictable in size and general appearance. And while these pups sometimes come equipped with “papers”, they often resemble the typical dogs of their breed in name only.
The professional breeder deals in dogs that are good representatives of their breed. While not all champions, by any means, the pups raised by the professional breeder carry good temperaments, are stable and trustworthy, and resemble the standards drawn up by the American Kennel Club for their particular breed.
Prices depend on the quality of each pup – either pet, breeding, or show – and the purchaser interested in a pet quality dog often receives a better price than in the pet shop where all pups of any one breed are priced identically, regardless of quality (although the males are often priced higher than the females).
Pups raised by professional breeders are usually held until they are at least three months of age. Too, they are inoculated, wormed and checked by a reputable veterinarian before they are sold, generally with a lengthy health guarantee.
The Cons Of Buying From A Professional Breeder
On the other hand, trying to purchase a pup from a breeder can be an unnerving experience. The breeders seldom live close enough so that you can visit and choose your puppy. In many cases the puppy must be shipped to you, sight unseen, hundreds or thousands of miles.
From the initial written or telephone inquiry to the final acquisition of a dog can exhaust weeks – even months! And for anyone desirous of owning a pup right away, dealing with a breeder can be discouraging and disheartening.
First, one must secure a reply from the breeder in question. Easy as this may seem, even those inquiries that are cogent, intelligent, and offer large amounts of money in return for a pup often go unanswered.
Why breeders find it so difficult to answer their mail (especially e-mail) is extremely hard to understand when one takes into consideration the vast amounts of money expended each year on advertising to encourage these very same inquiries.
Second, the breeder has to have what you’re looking for, which means a pup of the right age, sex, color, quality and temperament. If she does not, she may then inform you that she is expecting a litter or litters in the near (or not so near) future and will reserve a pup for you; that is, if such a pup ever materializes.
Next, you must be prepared to be interrogated and investigated and found to be deserving of and suitable for a pup. Breeders often impose unusual and lofty standards for prospective owners. Buyers must be prepared to be subjected to a third-degree similar to one conducted by a human adoption service or even perhaps the CIA!
If the breeder suspects that the puppy may have show potential – whether or not you are interested in this form of entertainment – the breeder will often make you feel like Judas if you do not happily agree to enter the dog in competition.
Of equal annoyance is the breeder who wants to keep your dog tied to the kennel apron strings by insisting on future breedings to or from the pups they sell. One often gets the impression that he is really nothing more than a foster parent, furnishing food and shelter to someone else’s dog, even after paying so much money for the pup.
Registration and pedigree papers are all too frequently slow in coming if, in fact, they arrive at all. Much postage and pleading on the part of the owner of the pup are often expended before satisfaction is obtained in this matter.
And last, one must become accustomed to phone calls and written notes for months after the pup has been bought from an anxious breeder eager to know how the pup is faring in his new home.
So, You Ask, Where Should One Purchase A Puppy?
Pet Shop? Backyard Breeder? Professional Breeder? The final decision remains up to the individual and depends only on his degree of tolerance for the shortcomings of each of these sources.
We personally prefer the professional breeder but would like to see these breeders come down off their lofty towers and treat the dog-buying public as if they depended on it – as, in fact, they do.
We do sincerely believe that no one but a serious breeder can give a new owner the solid, factual and informative advice necessary to care for a new pup – including proper nutrition, health care and training.
With a reputable and cooperative breeder, the odds are in your favor of receiving a healthy, stable pup who will be a credit to his breed and a source of pride and enjoyment to his family.
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Mar 23, 2011 | | Adopting A Puppy
The Best City Dog 4: Selecting Your Puppy
There is an old theory that man creates dog in his own image. Through selective breeding, people in an area develop the type of dog that fits their personality. And city dwellers have a much different “living personality” than those people who reside in other parts of the country.
When you have decided on the breed and the kennel from which to buy your puppy, the next step is the most important – choosing the one puppy that’s going to be the right dog for your needs and the right temperament for the city.
You may ask, how can one go to see a litter of pups and make any real judgments? They are all so cute and friendly. And even as you watch them, one is going to win your heart because of a funny spot he has or the way he plays with your hand. Of course, we’ll assume that you have examined each for physical problems and that they are all in good shape.
A Thorough Examination
Just to stay away from the listless, shy, or nervous pups is not enough. To make the decision on which one in the litter is to be yours, you now have to know what temperament is going to be best for your needs.
When you sit on the ground in the middle of a litter, the puppy that flails about and bites at your hand when you go to pick him up may seem cute. However when he grows up he may not be suited for a family with small children or for an elderly person, especially when living in the city with so many transients that pass by on a daily basis.
The pup that becomes quiet and comfortable when you pick him up will probably accept the rough play of children and the hustle and bustle of city life. And senior citizens will enjoy his gentle, submissive behavior. Such a pup will take to training readily.
Unfortunately, too many people seek out the bold dogs, the ones that stride through the litter so that all the other pups make way for them. Many of these dogs end up at the humane society shelter because they couldn’t get along with the kids or the older persons in the family.
The six-week-old pup that displays a high degree of social independence in his litter and that spurns praise and petting will be a tough dog to train. He’s the scrapper and just the kind of dog that is killed by a car while chasing a stray canine that has come into his territory. This doesn’t mean, of course, that he is necessarily a neurotic dog. All litters have their bullies and their wallflowers.
The bully often won’t respond favorably to scolding, and in the wrong home environment he can be a problem because he still wants to be the pack leader. But in the right home, with a strong master, this dog could be a fine pet. The opposite case can be made for the wallflower of the litter.
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Feb 15, 2011 | | Adopting A Puppy
Dog Pictures: Man’s Best Friend Is Also His Best Photo
It’s not just about dog adoptions. Here is a special article for the new doggie parents to be. You can join the many parents of a furry ‘baby’ showing your precious furry ‘baby’ pictures.
Ask any dog fancier to show you a snapshot of his lovable animal and he’s bound to regale you with an album-full of dog pictures, just like any proud parent!
Dogs and cameras seem to have been made for each other. But modern photographers count their blessings – it wasn’t always as easy as today’s ‘point and shoot’ technique which can stop a dog in mid jump catching a Frisbee, and come out looking perfect!
Dog Pictures From The Past
When the first photograph was taken in 1839, the photographer, Louis Daguerre, had to leave the shutter open for twenty minutes just to get enough light on the film (Quite an improvement over the eight hour exposure time earlier experimenters used.)
In just a few years, the art of photography spread like wildfire throughout the country and new developments made shorter exposure times possible – although exposure was still measured in minutes rather than the fraction of a second it now takes.
Photographing people was difficult enough. To keep them motionless during exposure they were often held rigidly in place by braces and vise-like head grips. Children were even worse – the slightest squirm blurred the photo. With daddy standing sternly nearby ready to scold the small poser if he scratched his nose, the photographer was nevertheless able to produce fairly good quality photos.
Dog Pictures Were Just As Popular
But just as with today’s dog owners, everyone with a pet pup wanted to get him into the act, too. However, even the best-trained pooch couldn’t be expected to freeze for five minutes while the photographer exposed his film.
The twitch of a friendly tail ruined many dog pictures in those early days – but nothing could put a damper on the dog owner’s enthusiasm. He wanted a shot of his dog – whether it was a daguerreotype, ambrotype, carte de visite, tintype, cabinet photo or snapshot.
Photographers kept trying, and out of the mass of blurs and blotches emerged a number of dog pictures immortalizing man’s best friend – and the photographer’s worst model!
Collectors Of Dog Pictures
Recently, a phenomenal growth of interest in early photography has sent a small army of collectors scouring the country for the daguerreotype and its successors. Some collect only outdoor scenes, others specialize in civil war soldiers – but it’s the valiant few who search for dog pictures that have the most difficult task of all.
The blurred images were of course discarded long ago, and good quality dog photos were uncommon even during the 19th century. Today they can be ranked in the “rare” class and have been sold for as much as $500 or more.
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Dec 08, 2010 | | Adopting A Dog, Adopting A Puppy, puppies for free
Disposable Dogs
When it comes to the emotional universe of human-animal relationships, perfection becomes a much coveted goal in the eyes of the dog owner. Everybody wants to have a dog that is in perfect health, perfect confirmation, and with the perfect temperament. But does this ideal canine really exist?
While it is true that many animals, just like many people, are very close to perfection than others, it is highly doubtful that any specific animal (or group of animals) can realistically be perceived as “perfect”.
A Crime Of Attitude
It is quite surprising just how naive humans can be in their outlook towards their canine friends. Everyday, puppies are returned to pet stores from individuals who have a handful of complaints from so-called imperfections of the animal. These minor imperfections cause puppies to be passed from home to home without anyone taking the time to try to understand them before hoisting them off to the next family.
Young puppies that come down with an illness or a debilitating handicap are most often put to death by euthanasia rather than the owners committing the love and care to help it cope with its disease or handicap. It’s just the easy way out.
The basic theory seems to be clear: “toss away the less-than-perfect dog, for he can be quickly replaced by a more perfect one… hopefully.”
Realistically, Complete Perfection Is Impossible
If a person is one of these owners who has illegitimately “thrown away” a not-so-perfect dog or puppy, then it is quite obvious that they are used to simply exchanging problems instead of eliminating them.
These animals are living creatures, just like you, just like your children and your family. How in the world can you expect each one to be perfect? Is the life of a dog not worth the extra care or attention?
Also like humans, dogs may not only come with imperfections in health, they also come with complex emotional systems that may be experiencing some sort of malfunction at one time or another. Many owners concede that when a dog starts to display an unwanted characteristic, whether it be physical or mental, it is then time to dispose of the dog for a replacement.
What Will It Take?
How difficult can it possibly be for pet owners to start thinking of their animals as sensitive living beings that need more love and attention than simply filling up the food dish and taking the dog out for a walk? A favorite quote is: “Dogs have rights too!”
And not only does your dog have rights to a life of love and care, regardless of many imperfect circumstances, he also has the right to be recognized for exactly what he is, which is a creature that is neither more perfect or less perfect than the owner that cares for it. If you do not make it a practice to discard your children for their imperfections, your friends, spouse or siblings, then have the decency to treat your pet the same way.
Technorati Tags: disposable dogs, dog owner, dog, canine friends, canine, puppies, pet stores, puppy, animals, Dogs & Puppies Adoption, Teri Champigny
Nov 29, 2010 | | Adopting A Dog, Adopting A Puppy
What Are Kennels
Kennels are enclosures to keep pets in for a period of time. This is to make it more convenient for their owners to do what they need to. Anyone that owns a pet can tell you it is difficult at times to deal with them if you don’t have access to a kennel. They are most commonly for dogs but people also use them for cats, rabbits, and other types of animals.
Some kennels are stationary which means they can’t be moved. These are very common in backyards when a person wants to give their dog room but not the entire yard. Others are portable which means they can be moved. The don’t offer as much room as an outdoor kennel but they will work when you need to transport your pet. Make sure it is going to fit into your vehicle as well though as some are quite wide.
You will find there are kennels in all sizes, with those for outdoors being the largest by far. Some are small enough for little dogs and cats that you can carry them with shoulder strap like you would a purse. They are also made from various materials including canvas, wood, durable plastic, and chain link.
A kennel needs to be a good fit for your pet so take your time to find one. Make sure you take their current size as well as their future size into consideration. They also need to have room for food and water during transport. Ventilation is also very important. Some have a thermal top that can be removed for warmer weather so that they can be comfortable no matter what time of the year it is.
Most vet clinics also have kennels where they room and board your pets. This is often done when your pet is ill or has a medical procedure so observation overnight it needed. They also open up their kennels to those that need a place for their pet to stay while they are away for vacation or some other need. This is better than leaving them home alone or trying to find someone to go care for them daily while you are gone. This is very affordable and you can go do what you need to without worrying about your family pets.
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Nov 02, 2010 | | Adopting A Dog, Adopting A Puppy
What Is The Perfect Age To Bring Home A Puppy?
The day your puppy comes home to stay is often a fun and exciting time. Usually there is something that makes it a special occasion to remember, an occasions adults always seem to be able to call upon no matter how many decades have gone by.
Someday this puppy will be all grown up and hopefully following the rules of the house. But alas, you have a long way to go before a well mannered dog develops from that playful new puppy. But never fear you can make it positive and successful. You must begin right away, as soon as the little guy or gal walks in the door.
New Puppies Are Like New Babies: Lots Of Work!
It is very normal for most pups and owners to experience some difficulties within the first few days of arriving. It can’t be helped with the world of his litter mates suddenly gone and an entirely new world thrown upon them. But good humor must prevail and with patience you can accomplish things in a good way for the entire family.
The best puppy age range to bring home is commonly thought to be 6 to 8 weeks of age. But to be exact, a lot of breeders believe 9 weeks to be best. With a puppy in this age range there will be a need for frequent rest periods, mainly in the afternoon, with some in the morning.
And take heed, when your puppy first arrives in his new home he might seemingly go crazy to explore anything and everything for several days while he adjusts. But this will pass and as long your puppy isn’t in harm’s way or hurting anything then let the little squirt have at it.
The 8-Week Old Pup
If you have brought home a puppy that is 8 weeks then beware from the start. This pup is at a stage that is called the fear stage. Thus anything that is heard by the puppy or done to this puppy could cause fear that lasts a long time and takes a while for him to grow out of (if ever). So you will have to be more patient during this age and let your new puppy take the time needed to explore and adjust.
The 10-Week Old Pup
For a puppy that is 10 weeks or slightly older, you will have brought home a bundle of energy. This puppy will play more and sleep less, especially a large breed dog. But the positive aspect of this is you can more easily get your puppy to stick with you and keep his attention on you for both play time and training sessions.
Technorati Tags: perfect age, bring home puppy, puppy, new puppy, puppies, dog, pup, Dogs & Puppies Adoptions, Teri Champigny
Oct 02, 2010 | | Adopting A Dog, Adopting A Puppy
The Scruffy Little Hunter Dog: Border Terrier
The Border Terrier got its name from the Scottish borders. This is where these dogs were bred to bolt foxes that have gone underground. They were also used to hunt and kill rodents as well as hunting for otters and badgers.
They have wiry coat that is why they normally appear as scruffy. However, this scruffiness is an attention-grabber that is why owners do not forget to hug their little ball of energy. You can get a Border Terrier from a breeder or you can try The Border Terrier Club of America a rescue place.
The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know about Borders:
Category: Terrier
Coat: wiry and short; double coated
Colors: wheaten, red, grizzle and tan, blue and tan
Height: Males – 13-16 inches (33-41 cm)
Females – 11-14 inches (28-36 cm)
Weight: Males – 13-15.5 lbs (5.9-7.0 kg)
Females – 11.5-14 lbs (5.2-6.4 kg)
Temperament:
Naturally,
• they are scruffy, hard and bold hunters
• they are active as puppies but mellow down as they mature
• they are not friendly with rabbits, rats, hamsters, and even birds
• they are economical to feed
• their activity die down when left alone all day as they really love to please people especially their owners
• they can get along with cats they were raised with but will chase cats they don’t know
• they may lose timidity when accustomed to active environments
Breeders should note of the following health issues:
• Canine Epileptoid Cramping Syndrome or CES, also called as “Spike’s disease”, which is a hereditary, neurological, metabolic and muscle disorder that is sometimes confused with canine epilepsy
• Cataract, or loss of transparency of one or both lenses of the eyes
• Cryptorchidism, wherein testicles do not descend into the scrotum
• Deafness
• Skin problems and a few skin allergies
Care and Exercise:
• Their coat needs weekly brushing.
• They should be professionally groomed at least twice a year.
• They should bathe only when necessary since they shed little to no hair. Their physique requires a regular exercise routine which includes a daily play time while on leash.
• They should be on leash while walking in public places because of their hunting instincts.
Origin/History:
The exact origins of Border terriers are obscure but many breeders accepted the story that the variety was developed in the Cheviot Hills area, which is near the border of Scotland and England. The Borders have been used as hunters of rabbits and hares. They can even keep up with running horses with their short yet sturdy legs. They were also used by farmers to lure predatory foxes into their dens before killing them.
They were also trained to hunt otters, marten, and even fierce badgers. Like most terriers that were once molded as hunters, they also evolved as pets and became lovely, friendly, and loyal companion dogs. They also take part in dog shows and they can easily grab their audience attention with their agility, appearance, and bright disposition.
The breed was registered by the British Kennel Club in 1920 and by the American Club ten years after.
At present, Borders are highly favored as companion dogs and pets due to their adaptability, friendliness, and winning personality. Nonetheless, they can be reliable when it comes to tracking down vermin. In fact, some of their esteemed talents include hunting, guarding the family, and performing tricks and sports that require competitive obedience.
Like most terriers, you can be rest assured to have a loyal and bright companion dogs if you give your attention and affection to a Border. You can be sure that they can definitely drive away your bore!
Technorati Tags: Border Terrier, Scottish borders, Scotland, scruffy, hunter, wiry coat, breed, The Puppy Blog, Dogs and Puppy Adoptions, Teri’s Dog Training Tips, Teri Champigny
Sep 22, 2010 | | Adopting A Dog, Adopting A Puppy, Breed Standard
Characteristics Of Reputable Breeders
When you decide to get a new puppy, the first choice you will face is where to get your puppy from. No matter how hard you try, it’s nearly impossible to know whether or not the puppy you are buying will grow up to be healthy and strong. In order to even assume that your puppy will grow up to be healthy, you’ll need to trust the individual you get your from.
There are three options available to you, in terms of breeders. You should carefully think about each one, as they all will vary. Below are the three options you have to choose from, and a little bit of information to help you make this very important decision.
Pet Shop Puppies
A pet shop is simply the worst place that you can get your puppy. The puppies they have for sale here are bred poorly, and raised in poor locations to say the least. In a lot of cases they come from puppy mills. At these types of places, the puppies are thought of as a profit and nothing more. There is little to no emphasis on quality here either – as pet shops prefer quantity over qualify.
Due to the way the puppies are bred and raised, pet shops make quite a bit of profit. With there being so little that goes into the breeding and care of the puppies, pet shops make a lot of money. They mainly rely on impulse buying, not giving you a lot of time to evaluate the puppies that they have for sale. If you’re looking for an addition to your family, and a puppy that you know is healthy, you’d be better off looking somewhere else for your puppy.
Backyard Breeders
Backyard breeders are considered to be yet another poor choice for your puppy. Almost all backyard breeders are people who own a few dogs and find it to be fun to breed their female for the fact of having puppies, or breed her once or twice before they decide to go ahead and get her spayed. Backyard breeders don’t look for quality or go out of their way to care for their litters, as they are more or less breeding to make money – and nothing more.
Normally, backyard breeders know very little about breed in general, and even less about how to properly care for their dogs. Backyard breeders normally aren’t familiar with the problems associated with breeding, and most could care less. Their only goal here is to breed puppies. Once the puppies have been bred, their remaining goal is to sell the puppies as fast as they can – for the highest possible price.
Hobby Breeders
A hobby breeder is the ideal way to get your puppy. Hobby breeders are loyal, committed, and think of their pups as more than just a hobby. Although they do make money breeding, they could honestly care less. Hobby breeders care more about the quality of their puppies than anything else, and they commit themselves to helping you get the best pup possible.
Hobby breeders accept responsibility for each one of their puppies, and they stand behind each and every one of their pups. If you want the best pup you can get for your money, you need to visit a hobby breeder. They very rarely produce poor quality puppies, as they care a lot about quality. If you get your puppy from a hobby breeder, you can rest assured that you getting a healthy puppy from the start.
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Sep 16, 2010 | | Adopting A Puppy, Breeders
