Picking the perfect dog is often a difficult thing to do. Even so, the effort is well worth it because when you find one that is just right you’ll have a friend for life. On the other hand, picking a pet that is the wrong fit can make life hard for everyone.
There are many things to consider when choosing a pet. Some of the requirements are age, temperament, breed, and history. Beyond those criteria you also need to think about how you live. This might mean considering other pets in the home as well as the frequency of your travel. If there are children involved it is especially important to consider the dog that is right for them.
Another thing to think about is whether or not you can afford a dog. There are certain breeds that are more costly over the long run than others. If money is tight, you might want to consider whether you should get a dog in the first place.
Also, consult your family. If everyone in the household is going to have to live with this animal and care for it you must make sure they agree with the decision. This means evaluating the size of the animal and the breed everyone likes best.
If you’re going to want an adult dog be sure your follow these guidelines:
• The dog behaves well around children
• The dog gets along well with the pets you already have
• The dog is friendly to family as well as guests
• The dog has a good history
• The dog fits in well with your current lifestyle
If you’re going to want a puppy be sure to follow these guidelines:
• The parents of the puppy are healthy
• The facility where the puppy was born and kept is clean and professional
• The siblings of the puppy are active and explore their surroundings
• The adults in the kennel are friendly
• The puppy has clear eyes
• The facility owners have references
• The facility owners have a lot of experience
• There is a return policy
• The puppy comes with records of all vaccinations and health issues
If the dog or puppy does not meet these guidelines you’ll have to make a tough decision. You might want to look at other kennels and find a different dog. If you’re not hunting around in kennels you can also check animal shelters. Sometimes that’s the best road to take because you’ll be saving a life as well.
This certainly is not an exhaustive list of things you need to think about, but it can still give you a good head start. Good luck in choosing your pet!
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