Choosing a Puppy that Will Fit Your LifeStyle.
Is it a good idea to bring home a brand new puppy on a whim only
because you happen to find one that is not only cute but darn
irresistible as well?
Would you be sad if I said, "No". I'm sure you will be. But you
don't want to be like most people who choose a puppy based on
those criteria alone. You have to do your research, if not; you
may end up with a dog that will not be compatible with your
lifestyle and will be far from your ideal companion.
When you first see the cute little puppy, regardless of what
breed it is, you need to remember that in a few months it will
start to be the size of and type of the breed that it is. In
other words, the loveable furry little ball that fits in the
palm of hand, may, in a few months, be a 50 pound Mastiff. .
If you do decide to choose a puppy and bring it home, you do not
want to be disappointed with the results. If this puppy outgrows
your little apartment or you happen to weigh 110 pounds and you
end up with an 80 pound St. Bernard the result will be more than
you can handle.
You won't be happy and neither will your dog, and you'll have
only yourself to blame because you didn't take the time to do
the research.
It all comes down to choosing a puppy that will grow up into the
right dog just for you. You need to visualize what you would
like to see in your dog once it is full grown, from a physical
and behavioral perspective. For example if you are energetic,
and like to take long vigorous walks, then a Bloodhound may not
be the dog for you. If you live in an apartment with children
then a highly energetic dog like a Jack Russell Terrier may give
you problems.
You new puppy is going to be sort of like a life-mate. This dog
will be with you and your family for a very long, long time. It
makes perfect sense not to rush into choosing one without some
serious research and thinking as to how this new family member
will mesh with your personality and lifestyle.