The choice of selecting a puppy or an adult dog is yours alone; however, since 3 out of 4 prospective dog owners want a puppy, the problem of selecting and preparing for the new arrival usually means the arrival of a young puppy. There is nothing wrong with bringing home an adult dog! In fact, such a purchase often has definite advantages. The adult dog is usually house broken and the rigorous feeding schedule necessary for the young puppy can be avoided. NOTE: These suggestions for selecting a puppy also can be followed when selecting an adult.
Selecting the right puppy for you and your family is very important. Dogs come in all sizes, shapes, coat length, color and temperament. Will the little puppy grow so large that you are uncomfortable with him? Will you be able to provide adequate room to fulfill his exercise needs? Will you be able to spend the necessary time to raise him properly or do you have other more pressing considerations? If you select a cute puppy whose adult coat will be long and flowing, will you have time to brush him daily? Will his temperament suit your needs? Investigate your prospective puppy thoroughly. Ask about his adult size and appearance. Ask about temperament. When studying a prospective puppy, look for signs of withdrawal from people as well as signs of being too "pushy." Watch for signs of aggression. If you want a calm, stable puppy, look for an easy-going little guy. If you want an outgoing puppy, look for an adventurous pup. Observe his reactions to you and your family. Is he friendly? Does he like children? Is he calm or active? Which puppy will best suit your needs and lifestyle?
Do you want a male or female? Your preference as to the sex of your puppy is strictly a personal choice. Unless you are getting a purebred dog and want to breed to improve your stock, we strongly recommend that your new puppy be spayed/neutered as soon as he is old enough. Your veterinarian can tell you at what age it is safe to spay/neuter. Many Animal Services Departments offer SPAY Clinics to help reduce the cost. Their phone number is listed in your local telephone directory.
A puppy should be at least 8 weeks of age before you bring him home. Pick out a healthy, attractive puppy to join your family. Often a puppy will pick you! Ask questions about his health. Trust your eyes and hands to tell if the puppy is sound in body. His ears and eyes should have suspicious discharges or odors. Legs should have strong bones. Bodies should have solid muscles. Coats should be clean. Lift the hair to see if the skin is free of scales and parasites. Ask for a Health Certificate showing which shots have been given and which shots are due. This Health Certificate should also give the date on which the puppy has been wormed. Be Selective!
Puppy's first night at home is likely to be disturbing to the family. Keep in mind that this is the first time he has been away from his mother, brothers and sisters, and he may be confused and frightened. If you have a special room for his bed, be sure there is nothing there with which he can harm himself. Be sure there is nothing he can tip, pull over, or chew. Check furniture that he might get stuck under or behind. If you want him to sleep in your room, he will probably be quiet at night, reassured by your presence. If left in a room by himself, he will cry and howl, and you will have to steel yourself to ignore his whining. After a few nights alone he will adjust. The first night he is alone, it is wise to put a loud-ticking alarm clock as well as his toys in the room with him. The alarm clock will make a comforting noise and he will not feel alone. Sometimes, a softly playing radio works well.
Every dog likes to have a place that is only his. He holds nothing more sacred than his own bed. If you get your puppy a bed, be sure it is one that discourages chewing. It should be large enough to be comfortable when he is full-grown. Locate it away from drafts and radiators. Encourage your puppy to sleep in his bed. Stop playing 1/2 hour before his bedtime and he will settle down faster.
Morning meal: Dry puppy kibble (add small amount of warm water and mix).
Noon meal: Canned puppy food (or meat) mixed with dry puppy kibble (add small amount of warm water and mix) plus a puppy vitamin.
Evening meal: Same as noon meal.
When you are ready, changing over to an adult diet is not too difficult. Very often the puppy will change himself--he will refuse to eat some of his meals. Most dogs will adjust to one meal a day fairly easily.
Most dogs will never have a health problem. For the few diseases that you might be concerned about, remember that your veterinarian is your dog's best friend. A dog needs little medical care; but, that little is essential to his good health and well-being. He needs:
1. Proper diet at regular hours.
2. Regular check-ups and inoculations.
3. Clean, roomy housing.
4. Daily exercise.
5. Frequent grooming.
6. Companionship and love.