The Selection Process
Puppy vs. Adult
Suzanne Plunkett/Associated Press
Few people can resist the impish charm of a puppy. But don't discount adult dogs in your search for the perfect pet. While puppies are playful and cute, an adult dog presents fewer unknowns in terms of potential health and behavioral problems. Choosing a full-grown dog also means you bypass the considerable initial costs incurred with a puppy — among them: spaying or neutering, initial vaccines and training classes. In addition, a family giving up their full-grown pet might supply the new owner with essentials such as a cage or crate, leashes, dishes, toys and blankets, which can add up to great savings. Of course, a puppy's personality may be easier to shape, and behavioral difficulties are easier to eliminate than with adult dogs.
A Puppy?
Look for one between the ages of 7 to 8 weeks old; any younger and he will likely have behavioral and social problems later. Once you bring the puppy home, however, you and your family take on the responsibilities of socialization previously held by his mother and littermates, so start bonding right away. This crucial period of socialization begins when a puppy is 3 weeks old and lasts until he is 3 months old, though he still needs attention afterward, of course.
Choose a puppy that is outgoing but not too dominant or aggressive, and you may want to avoid the runt of the litter. Runts may require more veterinary attention and training than do the other pups. Give your puppy a quick health check before you bring him home. Look for eyes that are clear and bright, pink gums, white teeth and a clean and shiny coat. Take note of a puppy with dandruff, ear discharge or running nose; while these may not be serious health problems in the long run, they will cost you some time and money to correct. Finally, check that he runs and walks well.
An Adult?
An adult dog comes with a known personality and medical history, provided he is not a stray or a shelter dog with questionable heritage. If you don't know much about the dog's past, do a few tests to determine whether he is right for you. Take him for a walk through a crowd and watch his reaction to adults, children and other dogs. Also try giving him a toy to see how easily he lets go. An aggressive dog might snarl, and a meek dog might cower at your approach.
All dogs and puppies have their own built-in requirements and rewards. To ensure that you'll have enough room, time and energy for your dog, you'll either need to do some creative guessing in the case of a puppy, or rely on the advice of the previous owner of an adult dog.
Find Your Perfect Pet
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