So You Want To Get A Puppy - Now What? (Part I)

Many people think about getting or given puppies as gifts. I would highly suggest that before you get or give a dog or puppy as a gift to someone, make sure you or they want one in the first place.

In many cases basic dog ownership responsibilities are not discussed. Additionally, many are surprised by the extent of the responsibilities associated with dog ownership. One needs to understand what to expect as a dog owner before acquiring one. There are restrictions and tasks involved with dog or puppy ownership.

If you are thinking of getting a dog or puppy or of giving one as a gift, make sure you or they at least have some initial education on dog or puppy ownership responsibilities. If you have not owned a dog before, I can guarantee you will be surprised by the extent of what is required in having a puppy or dog.

You can be amazed at the problems and frustrations that one can have, that has not been formally introduced to dog ownership responsibilities prior to taking in a dog, especially a puppy. Don’t forget if you had a pup or dog as a child, Mom and Dad are not around to take of the dog, it’s needs, and it’s training. You Are!

Do your research first and then you can determine if dog ownership is right for you or the person you would like to give a puppy to, at this particular time. Dogs are living creatures, not fashion accessories; owning one entails about as much commitment and responsibility as raising a child.

What type of dog would be good for you or the person you’d like to surprise with this little bundle of fur? Should the pup grow up to be big, medium, or small in size? Long hair, medium length, or short haired? Would a dog that needs regular grooming to keep the hair knot free, and clean become a burden to you or them? What if the dog needs regular haircuts is this practical, affordable? Or would a dog that doesn’t need much grooming and especially haircuts are a wiser choice?

What about allergies? Have you given this any thought? There is nothing worse then to give or get a puppy that you fall in love with, only to have to give it up a few months down the road because of allergies. Check this out before hand.

Did you know that there are breeds that are better suited for families with allergies? Did you know that some dogs shed, usually twice a year, especially if on a quality pet food, and no it isn’t most of the commercial dog foods in your local grocery store, pet shops, or feed stores? Some dogs are what we call coat retainers and need more grooming.

How about sex, male verses female. Did you know that there are more recorded bites from females? And don’t forget about neutering and spaying either way. Don’t forget about puppy shots? Quality food, and other items that one will need to care for and protect this new family member. Will that be a financial strain or a welcomed expense?

There is a lot to consider before getting that lovely ball of fur even more then mentioned here like breeds, snappiness, stability, reliability, trainability and so on. But without a doubt they can greatly enrich and enhance your life if you know what to expect, and what is expected of you.

Next we will talk about activities, dominance and a few different breeds. We will cover a lot of topics before we are done with this series.

Tracy Lenderink
Master In Creating A Bridge Of Knowledge Between The Animal & Human Spirit EzineArticle “Expert Author Status”
http://www.simpledogtrainingsecrets.com
http://www.simpledogtrainingsecrets.com/blog
tracy@simpledogtrainingsecrets.com

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• So You Want To Get A Puppy - Now What? (Part II)
• So You Want To Get A Puppy - Now What? (Part III)
• Think Twice Before Getting a Dog From the Pet Store