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Another factor you have to think about is
coat care.
A beautifully coated dog may be good to look at but needs constant
care which requires lot of time and patience to keep the coat from becoming
messy. Characteristics of certain breeds also matters, some dogs maybe loyal
to only one person while some others maybe family oriented, certain breeds may
be more tolerant of children than others and so on. Certain breed has specific
genetic problems that can affect their health. Get an idea about breed specific
health problems.
Once you have decided on a particular breed, the next thing
is to pick out a healthy one from the lot for sale. It is always better and
safer to get a pet from families with dogs having a recent set of off springs
so that the puppies are not exposed to the array of diseases found at pet stores,
kennels, breeding farms etc. and you also get an idea about the animals parents. Another
option is to get it directly from a good breeder or a small familiar pet store
No matter where you get your pet from, have it checked out
with a veterinary doctor and make your purchase only on his certification of
good health. As far as possible get the necessary papers from the seller
like its Pedigree ( a list of the dog's forbears say parents, grand parents
and great grand parents etc.) and its registered name, its AKC registration
Number/ AKC registration Certificate if any etc. If not, you are entitled to
know about the parents, its heritage and background as some breeds are prone
to have genetic weaknesses. The seller should give information about the
dogs medical history outlining the shots it has had and its food habits etc.
The best age for picking a puppy is at eight - nine weeks,
after the weaning and before he/she has gotten used to their birthplace. The
pup should have clear bright eyes and clean ears. Reddened or swollen eyes is
not desirable. Discharge or pus from the eyes can indicate worms. Ears should
smell waxy not foul. Lightly clap your hands from behind while somebody is standing
in front to check hearing. The nose should be free of discharge. Sneezing, coughing,
wheezing or a runny nose and eyes can indicate Canine distemper in puppies.
The teeth should be white and clean and breath should smell clean. Check the
skin for patches of flaking, reddening and for signs of fleas and the fur should
be shiny in most breeds. While you want to avoid overly nippy pups, don't pick
the one that flinches or cowers when you approach either: Puppies should be
active but not aggressive. Over-all the animal should feel firm, strong and
energetic. |
Dogs 
