Articles
The Loyal Pooch
By Sandy Kamen Wisniewski
Posted October 01, 2007
Dogs are a popular and feasible option for many families. Our doggie friends provide us love and devotion. But realistically they require a lot of time each day. They need to be fed two times daily (puppies three times) and walked or let out at least three times a day-in all kinds of weather. They need exercise on a daily basis. If you live in a home and do not want to walk your dog regularly a secured fence is necessary. If you plan on your dog living outside them maybe a dog is not the right choice for you. Leaving a dog outside, without regular companionship, is completely against the nature of your dog being part of a "pack" (the family unit). This sets your dog up for an unhappy life and potential behavioral problems. There are yearly expenses involved such as food, supplies, veterinarian, grooming, training and miscellaneous expenses, not to mention unexpected veterinarian bills should your dog become ill. If you suspect someone in your family may be allergic to dogs get them tested for allergies prior to purchasing a dog or spend a day or two around someone who has a dog already to test for an allergic reaction. Even if they are allergic to dogs there are some canines that are considered non-allergic.
When choosing between a puppy or adult dog keep in mind that puppies are a tremendous amount of work in comparison to an adult dog. Puppies need to be let outside to eliminate at least five times daily. They may have accidents in the house. Biting and chewing is also a probability because they will be teething. They will have a tremendous amount of energy and need attention, not unlike a toddler.
Many adult dogs come with issues from their past experience that you would have to deal with such as nervousness and sadness and will need adjustment time to bond with you. They are fairly easy to housebreak (or may already be housebroken) and probably won't chew things because they are no longer teething.
Once you have decided that you do want a dog it's time to decide what breed. Pure breed dogs all are bred for their unique qualities. All of them have positive and negative attributes. For example, if you do not have the time to devote to exercise and training a Border Collie or German Shorthaired Pointer, who are high-energy dogs, would not be right for you. If shedding or allergies are an issue a Poodle or Bishon Frise are good choices but a Golden Retriever or German Shepherd would not. There are hundreds of breeds to choose from and the task can be daunting. Read books, surf the net and seek advise from veterinarians, dog trainers and dog groomers.
Mix breed dogs are another option. Many times they live longer and healthier lives because they were created as nature intended. People that have mix breeds boast that, "there is no other dog like my dog!" But be sure to bring someone knowledgeable with you when you search for your new pet so they can test for temperament because of the fact that each mix breed has their own distinct personality.
Whether deciding on a purebred or mixed breed I highly recommend you consider adopting your dog from one of our many local animal shelters or foster care organizations. (Look for a list of shelters in the sidebar.) Additionally there are rescue organizations that are breed specific. Check out the American Kennel Club web site for details (www.americankennelclub.com).
It is vital when purchasing your dog from a breeder you find a reputable breeder. Do your research! If possible get a personal recommendation. Then visit the area where the dogs and puppies are housed. Make sure it is clean and the animals appear healthy and happy. Ask the breeder to see the mom and dad of the puppy you are considering. Are the parents friendly? Do they appear healthy? Ask for at least three referrals and a written approval to speak to their regular veterinarian. Then call the references to check out their credibility.
In summary, do your research and do not make any rash decisions. Consider asking the advise of pet care professionals such as a veterinarian, dog groomer or dog trainer. Going to a pet store or a shelter and purchasing on impulse, is both unfair to your family and to the pet, should it not work out. Not every dog is the right fit for every home. Further, not every person should own a dog. Those of you new to the idea of canine ownership have to realize that the perfectly behaved dogs on television's Frasier or old movie favorites like Lassie have had and years of training. Whatever you decide is the best option for you there is work involved. But if you are willing to devote the love, time and expense adding a pooch to your family can bring you more joy than you ever expected.
