The choice of a puppy must be approached responsibly. Before making this important decision, you must consult with family members. Make sure that all the inhabitants of your home will be happy pet. Note also that the puppy will have to pay a lot of attention. You should have enough time to walk your pet and play with it. However, if you are determined to purchase a puppy, then you need to know how not to make a mistake with his choice.
How to choose a breed of puppy?
The first thing to do is decide on the choice of breed of the puppy. It not only determines the appearance of the animal, but affects its character. Of course, almost every person has several favorite dog breeds. From these preferences, he is repelled when choosing a favorite. However, you should also understand why you need a dog. If you want the dog to guard your home, then it must be a fighting breed.
It includes German Shepherd Dogs, Dobermans, Alabai, Caucasian Shepherd Dogs. If it is important that the pet goes hunting with you, then the Russian greyhound, dachshund or Jack Russell Terrier will do. Fans of large and good-natured dogs are best to turn their attention to St. Bernards or Newfoundlands.
If you live not in the house, but in the apartment, then it is better to get a small or medium sized dog. Moreover, it is important that she be calm and friendly. Since a too active and energetic pet can easily become a real destroyer. Do you want your dog to be affectionate, friendly and obedient? Golden retriever, Labrador, Welsh Corgi, Toy Terrier, Chihuahua, Yorkshire Terrier possess such qualities.
In any case, in order to correctly choose the breed of the puppy, you need to carefully familiarize yourself with all its characteristics. Since it is important that the pet’s capabilities match your requirements for him.
How to choose a puppy’s gender?
You can choose the sex of your pet, relying only on personal likes and preferences. However, the pros and cons of both sexes should be considered.
Advantages of males:
- stronger and more enduring females, therefore more suitable for participation in various sports competitions;
- have a stronger nervous system than females;
- more unpretentious to the conditions of detention;
- remain operational throughout the year.
The disadvantages of males:
- more independent and aggressive, prone to dominance (behave as if they are taller than the owner);
- more difficult to educate and train;
- poorly managed in some situations (behavior can be greatly affected, for example, by the presence of a bitch nearby).
Advantages of bitches:
- more calm, affectionate and friendly;
- less prone to aggression, pugnacity and dominance;
- easier to educate and train.
The disadvantages of bitches:
- less strong, strong and hardy than males;
- their performance decreases during estrus (1-2 times a year);
- cannot serve during pregnancy and feeding puppies.
Highlight the most important qualities for you, thanks to which you can finally decide on the choice of sex of the puppy.
How to choose a breeder?
It is best to get a puppy in a specialized nursery. Before deciding on a choice, ask a few questions about the breed of the doggie you like to the breeder. If he tells you only about the merits of the breed, this indicates his desire to sell you the animal faster. A competent breeder should give an objective assessment of the breed. It is also advisable to get acquainted with the parents of the future pet.
You need to make sure that they have everything in order with health and behavior. Be sure to pay attention to how clean the place where animals are kept. If hygiene standards are not followed, then this means that the breeder does not watch dogs well. In this case, it is best to purchase a puppy in another kennel.
How to choose a puppy from a litter?
Do not rush to immediately take the first puppy you like. Observe his behavior first. A healthy doggie should happily play with his brothers and sisters. He should not growl or show aggression, this is atypical behavior for his age. You can even do some tests. To get started, drop a bunch of keys next to your puppy or something else that should get his attention.
If the dog is healthy, then he will certainly show curiosity, that is, he will run up to an unfamiliar object and begin to examine it. A mental reaction is indicated by a reverse reaction when the animal is frightened and begins to growl. Then, the dog can be turned over on its back and try to hold it in this position for several seconds, putting its hand on her chest.
The baby’s reaction should tell you how mentally healthy it is. If the puppy recognized your strength, stopped moving and resisting, then this indicates his weak psyche. If he, on the contrary, growls and tries to bite you, then this is also not a normal reaction. Since dogs should not be aggressive at this age. If the dog just wants to get out, then this is the most correct reaction, which speaks of his normal mental health.
When choosing a puppy, one should take into account not only all these nuances, but also its appearance. Be sure to pay attention to the condition of the coat, eyes, ears and teeth of the animal. Your future pet must be completely healthy. And, of course, do not forget that it is best to take the doggie that you liked. Because it is he who will become your best and most loyal friend.