The first thing to decide before buying a dog is what type and size you want. Many factors are important when buying, but be sure to consider what breed is suitable for you and your family. Some breeds require a lot of daily exercise and others require daily grooming. Remember also that different breeds may have genetic health issues to watch out for.
Larger dog breeds can be susceptible to hip dysplasia. This is a degenerative disease that affects the hip joint. When a dog with hip dysplasia matures, the hip joint and socket lose their ability to bear the animal’s body weight. They will have a hard time running or walking and even standing may become difficult. The only cure for this condition is surgery and even that is not very successful. My mom and dad had two dogs with hip dysplasia. The first one was a female Bichon Frise. She was operated on and it changed her whole personality. She went from an energetic puppy with a limp to a dog that only moved when it had to. Their second dog with hip dysplasia was a German Shepard cross. He did well until he was eight, with the help of an Aspirin on days when his hips were sore.
Smaller breeds of dogs can have genetic concerns of their own. Dogs that are in the "Toy" breed category, like the Pug, the Pekinese and the Lassa Apso are susceptible to breathing problems. These dogs have a short muzzle (or nose), which does not leave much room for sinus and nasal development. This is a condition that is often not evident in early development.
So, what should you look for when buying a dog? INFORMATION is the key word! After you decide what type of dog you want, seek out people who already own this type of dog. Maybe somebody you know already owns one? Get the word out that you are looking to buy a dog. Talk to people and gather as much information about the breed as you can. If you go to a pet store, talk with people. Pet owners love to talk about their pets.
Do research on the internet about your dog breed and print out whatever information you can find. Buy books and read about the bread you are interested in. Know that it is extremely important to become an educated consumer BEFORE you buy your dog from a breeder.
Finally, when you talk with dog breeders, ask any questions that come to mind. Honest dog breeders will be more than happy to talk with you and answer every question. Note the condition of the dog’s environment. Are the dog pens clean? Are the puppies well cared for? Can you see the mother and father? What type of puppy food are they being feed? Have the puppies had their shots? Reputable breeders love their animals and go to great lengths to provide a proper "home like" environment. Puppies are products of their surroundings. A good, clean environment will surely be reflected in a dog's playfulness.
Beware of breeders who are interested only in making money. They generally don't pay much attention to their dog’s emotional needs and health concerns. Also, they may inbreed their dogs and this can trigger severe health issues. AVOID THESE BREEDERS!
Some breeders may offer a 72-hour guarantee. This allows you time to take your puppy to a vet for inspection. If any health issues are identified, contact the breeder and get your questions answered.
Good, honest breeders care for their dogs and it shows in their surroundings. There are no guarantees that you will always have a normal, perfect puppy, but you greatly increase the odds when you do your homework first!
Mom and dad have gotten dogs from breeders, pet stores and the Humane Society. They have loved them all, but each source has produced both good dogs and dogs with problems. Sometimes, in spite of all your research, your heart takes over from your head and you just have to get that cute one that bounded over and licked your hand. In those cases, your affection for the dog overcomes any short comings that it may have.
Until next time,
Teia
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