If you decide to adopt a puppy you will have to learn a few things about dogs in general and find out specifics about the puppy that is about to enter your family. While it is essential to be prepared to offer training and a welcoming home that is puppy friendly, it is equally important to learn some things about the puppy you're about to adopt.
1. Health Conditions
Before you get the puppy, you will have to talk to the breeder or the people at the shelter you're adopting the puppy from about possible health conditions the puppy may have. If the puppy has a health problem, this will involve additional costs and time, so you need to establish whether you are prepared for this. Ask about possible diseases of the parents, as certain diseases may be hereditary.
2. Vaccination Status
Some puppies may be vaccinated, while others may still need their shots. Vaccines are essential for the puppy's health, so you will have to learn if he has been vaccinated and if not, learn about the vaccines he will need.
3. Previous Owners
Puppies may have had a previous owner or may have been given for adoption to a shelter. It is important t to know whether the puppy has had another owner, as this may have affected him.
4. Training
Puppies will require behavioral training. Puppies that have had a previous owner may have benefited of some training classes, so it is important for you to know where to start the training.
5. The Costs Involved
Owning a dog will involve a few costs. The costs will vary according to the specifics of each breed; however, you should expect to pay more for your puppy during his first year, as he will need vaccines, supplies, toys and food. Figure out how much you need to spend on a yearly basis and whether this will fit in your budget before you adopt a puppy.
6. Specifics of the Breed
The puppy you adopt may be a pure or mixed breed. Regardless, you will have to find out about his energy level, how large the puppy can grow and other details about his coat length and possibly other general personality traits of the breed. You have to see if these will be suitable to your lifestyle. For instance, if you live in an apartment, a large breed may not be the best choice. If you lead a busy life and won't be able to walk the dog for very long every day, you will have to get a lower energy dog. The length of the coat may be important, as a long haired dog will require more grooming.
7. Puppy Personality
The puppy you choose may have a certain personality. Talk to the people at the shelter, as they must know about the puppy and his behavior and personality. The general personality traits of the breed may not always be the same in your puppy.