There are plenty of options when it comes to choosing a dog, but some are better than others. Breeders, rescue organizations, your local shelter or Humane Society, a neighbor or friend with puppies and pet shops are all common choices. However, pet shops can be a real problem, since many of them source their animals from breeders who are trying for quantity, not quality. Even the best looking pet store puppy could have real health issues, and may not have been treated well, leading to behavioral problems.
If you're an experienced dog owner, you may wish to consider checking out the local rescue or shelter. After all, there are lots of animals there who have, for one reason or another, lost their homes. Whether they've been removed from inappropriate owners, dropped off because they were found running wild, or abandoned by a previous home, many of these dogs would love to come home with you. They're also quite inexpensive to adopt, and in many cases, neutering and many or all vaccinations have already been performed.
However the background of a shelter dog is generally a mystery. Some voluntarily released shelter or rescue dogs come with a story, but most are unknown quantities. That means that you could be bringing home a dog which has been abused, or which grew up without proper socialization. Offering pets of this kind a loving home is one of the best things you can do, but you need to be ready for the fact that they'll have some behavioral issues.
They may not understand your rules, and may act out. This causes many people to return their new pets to the shelter because they don't have the experience for it. However, if you're patient and careful, you can rehabilitate a rescued dog, and he or she will make an amazing pet. You just need to know what you're doing.
People who genuinely want a purebred, or who prefer a dog which has a full record of its past should consider a breeder, instead. Take the time to find a good one, with a reputation for genuinely caring about their animals. Don't be surprised if the cost for a puppy or adult animal from a breeder is high. The breeder is almost never making a profit if they treat their animals well, even if the adoption costs seem steep. It costs a lot to raise a purebred puppy properly.
Spend some time talking to your breeder. You'll probably be asked a number of questions to determine if you're a good choice for your puppy's new home. Don't be insulted by this, and don't be afraid to ask some questions back. If you demonstrate that you're knowledgeable and will care for your new dog properly, the breeder will be happy to help you through the adoption process.
Article by Kelly Marshall of ohmydogsupplies.com, check for current specials on unique orthopedic dog beds online.
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