Friday, March 24, 2023

Getting a Puppy? How to Go About It


Thinking of getting a puppy? There’s a good reason that dogs are referred to as “man’s best friend”. They really are a great companion who can keep you company, entertain you, love you and generally prove a great member of the family. But it’s important, before getting any dog, to make sure that you know what you’re letting yourself in for, what your responsibilities will be and whether this is the right decision for both you and the pup you pick. Here’s some information to help with this.

Why Do You Want a Puppy?

First, consider why you want a puppy. All too many people get a dog for the sake of it, to show off on social media or because they feel a little bored. At the end of the day, a dog is a living, sentient being who will be entirely dependent on you for the duration of their lives - which can last up to two decades or more! You need to make sure that you’re fully prepared for the responsibilities ahead of you.

It’s also important to remember that all dog breeds have unique personalities that may play a role in your reasons for wanting a puppy. For instance, some breeds such as Akita, Bullmastiffs, and Belgian Malinois have natural protective instincts, making them great choices as guard dogs to protect your home and family.

But if you’re looking for a dog that can protect you, then you may want to consider a service like Scott's K9 instead so you don’t have to wait years for your pup to grow up! Of course, many people choose these breeds not only for their strengths as guard dogs, but because they like how the breed looks. Just remember that a breed’s natural instincts will eventually come through!

But what kind of responsibilities will you have as the owner of a new pup?

Responsibilities

Some key responsibilities to prepare yourself include:

  • Food - remember some dogs will have specific dietary requirements or intolerances, so food may be more expensive than standard store bought options.
  • Toys - dogs will go through these regularly, meaning they will need to be replaced frequently.
  • Bedding - different dogs prefer different options, but all dogs will need their own bed to sleep in.
  • Daily walks - some will require a short walk, some ongoing exercise throughout the day.
  • Play time - some dogs like to play a lot. Some like to be challenged with smart toys.
  • Pet insurance - every dog needs pet insurance to ensure they can have the treatment they need as and when they may need it.
  • Routine veterinary care - routine treatments like vaccinations, flea treatment, worming and more are not usually covered by insurance, but will still need to be paid.

To Buy or To Adopt

When you get a dog, you’re going to have to decide whether to buy a puppy or adopt. You can often find puppies for adoption. Of course, buying a dog is straightforward. You find a breeder and purchase the breed and age you want. However, if you’re choosing to buy a dog, make sure to use a reliable breeder like ABC’s Puppy Zs, who treats their dogs (fathers, mothers and puppies) extremely well - not just as money making tools. If you adopt, you will be providing an existing dog with a home. This is great. Just make sure to check the dog’s history, any behavioral issues you may need to look out for and any health issues they may have.

Choosing the Right Breed

Whether buying or adopting, you need to make sure you’re choosing a dog that is right for you and your lifestyle. Remember that all breeds of dogs were initially bred for a purpose, so will often share specific physical and personality traits. Research any dog you’re interested in. Some will require more exercise, more attention, more play, more grooming, more space or other lifestyle characteristics. Find a dog that matches you and your lifestyle. There’s no point getting a working dog if you’re not going to be able to provide eight hours of exercise a day and ongoing play. There’s no point getting a companion dog who requires more attention if you’re going to be out of the house for hours at a time.

Hopefully, the above steps will help you to find the right dog for your needs!

34 comments:

  1. My daughter has been begging for a puppy for several years now.

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  2. I like that you list some of the responsibilities.

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  3. Thanks for the great post! People are always in hurry about getting a puppy, without realizing it is a big responsibility. Even choosing the right kind of dog that will fit your family.

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  4. I tend to go for older dogs but certainly get why a cute puppy is appealing

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  5. Considering a puppy for a few reasons, maybe in the next year!

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  6. It has been SOOOO long since we had a puppy! Love them

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  7. Forget my name: It has been SOOOOO long since we've had a puppy. Love them. Carolsue - digicats {at} sbcglobal {dot} net

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  8. What a cutie! Puppies, like children deserve to be well-treated and taken care of, it seems that children always want a cute puppy but their parents are aware of the responsibilities and financial cost of caring for a puppy properly

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  9. Great article with super info. I would always get a rescue, they really love you forever.

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  10. This was the first time travelling with my dog and it was fantastic! Must be wonderful having your lab Chum along on your trips !

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  11. That was so awesome and yes everyone should learn from our dogs to be unconditional. This remembered of my dog too.best rechargeable pet vacuums

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  12. This post is so informative and helpful. I would love to get a puppy it's been too long.
    heather hgtempaddy@Hotmail.com

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  13. Great info. I hope to move somewhere where I can have dog.

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  14. I’m thinking about it but I already have 2 cats I hope they can get along!

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  15. I have a male pit that I need to get neutered. He's not aggressive, I just want to take precautions. He is a year and half old. Could you let me know if they are still doing the neutering for bully breeds for free? Thank you.

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  16. Oh my, what a cute puppy! I miss having them around! Thanks and God Bless! ILuvTheEucharist @ aol dot com

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  17. The sites are located and fixed for the top of the turns. The change of the Pharmacist mortgage is ensured for the citizens. The reforms are shaped out for the top of the cycled items for the theme and argument for the fixtures in this team.

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  18. I just got a puppy last year and it really is a big responsibility!

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  19. I remember the first time getting a puppy. The hardest part for me was potty training them to go outside.

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  20. We have a 10 month old golden retriever. She is sitting at my feet right now. She has been so much work for our family, but we love her so much. Our pup has really taught my young daughters about responsibility. She has had a couple of issues, and I didn't know about pet insurance until it happened. I wish I knew sooner.

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  21. Getting a puppy is a very big responsibility. ;)

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  22. I love puppies. They are totally worth the extra work

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  23. Interesting post! I love puppies but it's been a while since I've had one.

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  24. I always thought it would be nice for my son to have a puppy. He's so allergic to everything though, that we have never done it. I grew up with dogs and loved them so much!

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  25. Puppies are a lot of work, but so worth it if your family is willing to put in the effort!

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  26. Definitely look at adopting! It's cheaper and more humane. Also rescue dogs tend to have less health problems than breeder dogs. It took me a while to find a hypoallergenic dog to adopt, but it's definitely possible! Set up alerts for sites like petfinder, bookmark local rescue pages, and ask local pet stores which rescues they partner with for adoption events. My Maltese and I bonded immediately and I already can't imagine my life without her.

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  27. Getting a puppy is kind of like adding another kiddo to the family. They are a lot of work, but thankfully they grow and learn fast. Getting a puppy a few years ago has been a wonderful thing for our family. The kids adore her and help with her care every day!

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  28. We lost our sweet Madison a few years ago. I think I am finally ready to share my heart with a new Golden Retriever. Not replacing her just miss not having a pup and since we are retired we have so much time to spend with a new one! Can't wait!

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  29. I've never had a puppy but I have had kittens. Most of my pets just "show up" and adopt me.

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  30. I lost my beloved Golden almost 2 years ago. He lived a long happy life. I think it’s time for me to welcome a new pawsome family member!

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