Dog 360

"Select" is defined in the dictionary with such phrases as "a preferred choice" or "carefully chosen". Selecting the family dog should be a well-researched and carefully soul-searched activity. Are you and your family willing to make a 10 - 15 year commitment to this sentient being in sickness and in health, for richer and for poorer, for as long as all shall live? Let's pose some of the questions family members should discuss before obtaining a dog, after which we will look at how to obtain the carefully chosen dog of your dreams.

Once breed and breeder have been selected, it's time to choose the puppy that will share your home and heart for the next dozen or more years. There's a few more decisions to make before this final choice is made.

Once you've chosen the breed of dog that appeals to your esthetic sense and meets your family's needs and circumstances, you have a plethora of potential sources for your new companion. Not all sources are equal. Breeding philosophies, breed knowledge, prices, financial arrangements, contracts, and customer or client assistance differ among the various puppy sellers. Most puppies purchased from any of these sources are acceptable pets, but chances of buying a lemon are greater with some than with others.

For a look at the pitfalls of choosing the wrong source, see The Puppy Report by Larry Shook. Although the book probably overstates the potential for purchasing an unhealthy puppy, the point is clear: don't buy a dog without careful consideration of the source.

Brokers, pet stores, neighbors, professional breeders, commercial kennels, puppy mills, and animal shelters all sell dogs. Kennel clubs, breed clubs, and breed associations do not sell dogs directly but usually recommend breeders that the prospective buyer can contact.

Buying a dog is no small decision. Often, it's a choice made impulsively (Oh, look! Puppies!), and later regretted.

Everyone thinks their breed or cross is the greatest. However, what is right for your family or lifestyle may not be right for someone else. Before you run out and get a dog you must stop and look at your lifestyle. Take a moment and read the following to help you decide if a dog will fit into your life.