Getting Prepared
If you are buying from a breeder find out what kind of contract the breeder has. They should have one if they really care of where their dogs are going, and should be willing to take the dogs back at any point (if you are no longer able to take care of it). The contract should back up each pup's health with a written health guarantee.
Ask the breeder if you could see the puppy's parents, the vet records, proof of the parents registration, etc. Ask if their dogs live indoors/outdoors (it will give you a hint in what kind of environment your dog will be comfortable with), and what will they do if your puppy gets seriously ill within a few days.
If you are considering adoption, there are specific guidelines some shelters take. They each have their own so they will differ. Most shelters have the dogs evaluated for their temperament, have all of their vaccinations, and are neutered/spayed. They will make you submit an adoption application, once you are approved you may adopt a dog. The next steps are different for each shelter; some will let you choose what ever dog you want, others will decide on a dog for you and/or give you some choices. Each shelter should have the adoption process in their website, so you should check there.
Ask the breeder if you could see the puppy's parents, the vet records, proof of the parents registration, etc. Ask if their dogs live indoors/outdoors (it will give you a hint in what kind of environment your dog will be comfortable with), and what will they do if your puppy gets seriously ill within a few days.
If you are considering adoption, there are specific guidelines some shelters take. They each have their own so they will differ. Most shelters have the dogs evaluated for their temperament, have all of their vaccinations, and are neutered/spayed. They will make you submit an adoption application, once you are approved you may adopt a dog. The next steps are different for each shelter; some will let you choose what ever dog you want, others will decide on a dog for you and/or give you some choices. Each shelter should have the adoption process in their website, so you should check there.
Get Ready!
You have to commit to the dog, especially if you own your own place. Plan to give up a few days to get your puppy used to it's new surroundings.
1. Know where you want him/her to sleep, eat, and do its business.
2. Spend time researching the breed you are buying/adopting. Research more than one breed just in case you see a dog that you really like and it's a mixed breed.
3. Choose a vet, and let them know you might be bringing a puppy in soon. Although, if you are adopting you might not need to go to the vet right away; your dog might already be vaccinated and microchiped.
4. Puppy proof your home - cover all holes near the fence, don't leave any trash on the floor, close all cabinets, keep electrical wires out of reach and out of sight. Try to keep the puppy in one area by keeping a baby gate.
5. Work out a schedule in advance with the members of your household. Who will walk the dog in the morning? Who will feed it at night? Will it be allowed to sleep on the bed? Can it even sleep inside? Is any part of the house off-limits? Etc.
1. Know where you want him/her to sleep, eat, and do its business.
2. Spend time researching the breed you are buying/adopting. Research more than one breed just in case you see a dog that you really like and it's a mixed breed.
3. Choose a vet, and let them know you might be bringing a puppy in soon. Although, if you are adopting you might not need to go to the vet right away; your dog might already be vaccinated and microchiped.
4. Puppy proof your home - cover all holes near the fence, don't leave any trash on the floor, close all cabinets, keep electrical wires out of reach and out of sight. Try to keep the puppy in one area by keeping a baby gate.
5. Work out a schedule in advance with the members of your household. Who will walk the dog in the morning? Who will feed it at night? Will it be allowed to sleep on the bed? Can it even sleep inside? Is any part of the house off-limits? Etc.
Get Set!
Don't rush into buying a dog right away! Get everything the dog needs first, so you wont worry about it later. Here is a list of things you might need:
1. Dog Food - This may require some research on its own. Nowadays, there are a lot of unnecessary ingredients that goes into our food, what doesn't make the cut may go into your dog's food. Just because it is advertised on television, does not mean it is healthy for your dog. Do the research. Organic dog food is best because it is free from pesticides, hormones and chemicals, and genetically modified ingredients.
2. Food and Water Bowls - Dogs should each have their own food dish.
3. Dog Collar - Make sure the collar will last and fit your dog for a good while.
4. Leash - 4' to 6' leashes are great for everyday use, 15' - 30' for training. Retractable leashes are recommended.
3. Dog Toys - Tennis balls, Frisbee, Kong toys and squeaky toys, etc.
4. Bed - Dogs should have their own bed to sleep, unless you're willing to share your space.
5. Crate - A hard plastic carrier or fold-able metal craters are helpful during house training.
1. Dog Food - This may require some research on its own. Nowadays, there are a lot of unnecessary ingredients that goes into our food, what doesn't make the cut may go into your dog's food. Just because it is advertised on television, does not mean it is healthy for your dog. Do the research. Organic dog food is best because it is free from pesticides, hormones and chemicals, and genetically modified ingredients.
2. Food and Water Bowls - Dogs should each have their own food dish.
3. Dog Collar - Make sure the collar will last and fit your dog for a good while.
4. Leash - 4' to 6' leashes are great for everyday use, 15' - 30' for training. Retractable leashes are recommended.
3. Dog Toys - Tennis balls, Frisbee, Kong toys and squeaky toys, etc.
4. Bed - Dogs should have their own bed to sleep, unless you're willing to share your space.
5. Crate - A hard plastic carrier or fold-able metal craters are helpful during house training.