| A lot of us dream of having our own puppy one day. | | | | extremely important to choose the correct breed for |
| There are many things we must consider before | | | | you and your family. If you choose incorrectly, the |
| taking on the task. Before rushing out to buy or | | | | dog will be in the SPCA before you know it. After all, |
| adopt a puppy it is recommended that you seriously | | | | there are over 130 breeds officially registered with |
| consider the impact this will have on your life. | | | | the AKC. There are sporting dogs, working dogs, |
| Examine the reasons of your decision. Why do you | | | | hounds, terriers, toy dogs, and nonsporting dogs. |
| want a dog? Are there young children in your family? | | | | So how do you decide which breed of dog is right |
| Do you live in a house with a yard or an apartment? | | | | for you? Some veterinarians feel that mixed breeds |
| How much time do you have to devote to your new | | | | make better family pets because they have calmer |
| puppy? There are many questions to ask yourself | | | | temperaments and are less expensive. Others feel |
| before jumping into this decision. Puppies need to be | | | | that purebreds are much more predictable as far as |
| fed, walked, played with and loved. They need a | | | | future temperament and size. A purebred pup allows |
| great deal of constant attention. If you don't have | | | | you predict what he will be like as an adult. |
| the time, please wait until you can devote much of | | | | Choose a puppy that reflects your personality. Are |
| your day to him. As he ages, he will not need as | | | | you active? Do you like staying at home? Do you like |
| much attention, but like a newborn, your pup needs | | | | the outdoors? Are you hyper? Are you laid back? Do |
| you. Anyone who thinks they want a dog should | | | | you work all day? You must choose a breed that will |
| step back for awhile and truly understand the impact | | | | compliment your personality. Also consider your |
| he will have on their lives. | | | | lifestyle. Are you flexible enough to work around |
| Not everyone should have a dog! Some people, for | | | | your pup's needs? An example: Our family goes on |
| whatever reasons, simply do not have the time or | | | | vacation each year to the Outer Banks of North |
| the ability to care for a dog. Caring for a dog is a lot | | | | Carolina. We have two Labrador Retrievers that we |
| of hard work. A dog cannot take care of himself. | | | | leave behind for the week. Our two dogs must be |
| From the minute he enters your family, you will be | | | | kennelled or stay with friends. This can be very |
| responsible for feeding, watering, exercising, training, | | | | expensive and stressful. |
| playing, and sheltering him. A dog is a very social | | | | In conclusion: Please take time to consider your |
| animal. | | | | decision. Choose your breed carefully. Above all else - |
| There are many different breeds of dogs and it is | | | | enjoy the new member of your family. |