All You Need to Know About Picking the Perfect Puppy for Your Family
There are a host of reasons why you may be considering getting a new puppy, but as this can be a big life decision for you and your family, it can be especially important to do your research before taking the plunge. Even if you’re an experienced dog owner, you’ll understand that every dog is different, so you’ll want to be prepared to ensure the right fit.
5 top tips when choosing the perfect puppy
What are you really looking for?
A dog will be an integral part of your family, so you’ll need to think about what you really want from this new member of the pack. Are your children desperate for a new dog? If so, you may want to choose a breed that is kid friendly and likes to have fun, like a Labrador Retriever. Are you looking for a companion that will go everywhere with you? A German Shepard or a Beagle could be a great choice. Are you looking for a small yet friendly puppy with plenty of energy and who plays well with both humans and any other pets? Frenchie puppies may be the perfect match.
Learn about different breeds
As you can see from the above point, different breeds have different traits that should be extensively researched to ensure that your new puppy will be a good match. For instance, if you're considering to Add a weimaraner puppy to your family, then you'll want to learn about their high energy levels and need for mental stimulation.
Similarly, researching Labrador Retrievers might reveal their friendly nature and love for water, while exploring Border Collies would highlight their intense work drive and intelligence. Each individual dog will have their own temperament also, so it can be worthwhile to do a meet and greet with a litter of puppies through a professional breeder to familiarise yourself and make the right selection.
This approach allows you to observe the puppies' personalities firsthand, whether you're looking at an active breed like a Jack Russell Terrier or a more laid-back breed such as a Basset Hound.
How will a puppy fit into your lifestyle?
The chances are that you will have commitments in your day-to-day life that will affect your ability to be there for your new housemate. Some breeds will be okay with being left home alone for a few hours at a time, whereas others will need lots of outdoor activity to be satisfied. A puppy will need to fit into your lifestyle, so ensure that you take your working hours, your typical physical activity, the rotas of family members and more into account.
Think about the size of your home and your dog
The modern household isn’t always equipped for dogs, but this doesn’t need to dictate the breed you hope to buy. For example, larger dogs can be brought into smaller homes, as long as you balance out their exercise with plenty of long walks and even family trips away.
The level of maintenance needed
Maintenance can play a key role in the pet you choose for your home. Some people prefer to choose dogs with a low-shedding coat to minimise upkeep and clean-up, whereas others won’t want to spend the time and money on regular grooming sessions, which can be the case if you go for a Poodle or Bichon Frise.
