Handy tips about getting a puppy

by **Steve** on Wed Feb 07, 2007 11:34 pm

Choosing your puppy

If you buy from a breeder discuss with them the dogs temperament, the animal's positive and negative aspects. Any health problems it might have, its feeding requirements and whether the puppy has been immunized. Reputable breeders will be willing to answer any questions and will make themselves available if you call for advice after you've made your purchase. You can usually tell whether the puppies are healthy and happy. If they are clean, plump, and lively they are probaley in good health. Remember that the mother, having just raised a demanding family, may not be looking her best, but if she is sturdy, friendly and well mannered her puppies should be too. In choosing a puppy, assuming it comes from healthy, well-bred parents, look for the one that is friendly and outgoing. Make sure that you know the pups feeding routine. Place him in a sturdy comfortable carrier for the journey home.[/size]

Here are some guidelines on what to do and ask for when buying a puppy.

1. Always see the mother when viewing the pups and ask to see the father also, or arrange to view the father afterwards if it is not housed at the same address.

2. If your worried about the price of a pup and question whether you can afford to purchase one. DON'T BUY ONE as dogs are expensive and if you can't afford to buy one, then you definately can't afford to look after one.

3. Don't take any money with you, as you'll be more inclined to buy one. Look at them and then say you need to go to a bank and also have a discussion. Then this gives you time away to think about it properly.

4. Get a recieipt stating whether its IKC or KC registered with the parents registration numbers on and you should also be given a pedigree of the puppy. Make sure on the receipt is the breeders name, address and signature.

5. Always ask for guidelines on feeding requirements, vacinations, when the pup had been wormed and flea'd last and any other questions you may have before leaving with your pup.