How to Buy a Puppy

Owning a puppy is great. They make excellent companions, running partners, playmates and family pets. Whether you are buying a puppy just for you or as a new pet for the whole family, there are several factors to consider when deciding which puppy is the right one. Here are some things to remember when buying a puppy.

Instructions

1. Do your homework. If you are planning on buying a purebred puppy, research different breeds of dog before deciding which breed you want. While the disposition of any breed depends heavily on how it is raised by its owner, there are certain breeds of dog known to behave better around children, to be calmer than other breeds or to be more protective of their owners. Knowing which breed of dog will suit your lifestyle will make buying a puppy easier.

2. Consider adoption. If you are not intent on a specific breed of dog, consider adopting a puppy or even an older dog from an animal shelter or a rescue center for abandoned or neglected dogs. These dogs may not qualify to be registered with the American Kennel Club, but they still make wonderful pets and have a lifetime of love to give to any owner who adopts them.

3. Find out about immunizations. Make sure that any puppy you adopt is properly immunized and vaccinated against rabies, worms and the various diseases and parasites that puppies can be vulnerable to. Any reputable breeder you purchase a puppy from should have this information up-to-date and readily available. Shelters provide immunization records during adoption, and many of these facilities include vaccinations as part of the minimal adoption fees.

4. Examine eyes, ears, nose and mouth. The puppy's eyes should be clear and alert. The nose and mouth should be clean, and the dog should be breathing regularly. The ears should be clean as well. Breeds whose ears stand erect such as German Shepherds will have ears that are relaxed or not yet standing up yet when they are still puppies, but this is not a sign of ill health.

5. Look at the puppy's tail. A dog's tail can actually tell you a lot about the dog's overall health. Breeds such as pointers should have tails that hang straight down that do not curve or appear bent or uneven. Shepherds and other dogs whose tails curl up should curl fully and should also appear even and straight. Anything other than this could indicate poor health or a breakage in the tail.

6. Interact with the puppy. Take the time to play with the puppy and interact with it on a one-on-one basis. Puppies of any breed should be energetic, playful and inquisitive. Some puppies will naturally display shyness or timidity. Any signs of lethargy or listlessness, however, could be a sign of worms or other illness or poor nutrition.

Resources

• The Humane Society explains why puppy mills are dangerous and how to find a healthy puppy at hsus.org.
• Research different dog breeds at akc.org.