Are you thinking of getting a dog or a puppy? Find out about choosing the right dog or puppy to suit your lifestyle, and learn about the different breeds of dog you can choose from.
Choosing a puppy
Finding a good breeder
The tricky thing about puppies is that they all look incredibly cute. Choosing the right puppy for your home is important – and you don’t want to end up taking them all home!
If one puppy looks sad and forlorn in the corner, try not to be seduced by its imploring eyes. If any puppy in the litter is likely to have health and physique problems, it’ll be that one.
If one puppy just seems like the one for you, then that’s no bad thing, but do check the puppy over thoroughly. You’re looking for:
- a generally robust look – not much fatter or much thinner than the rest of the litter;
- a sleek, shiny coat – with no red patches or sores;
- pink, clean-smelling ears and gums – and no bad breath; and
- a clean and dry behind – with no signs of diarrhoea, discharge or irritation.
Think about the puppy’s personality too. Confidence can be a good sign, although if you already have boisterous children, a very excitable puppy could be too much. But if you’re hoping the puppy will give you and your family plenty of exercise, then a bouncy, lively pup is just what you’re looking for.
