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Puppies are cute, cuddly and adorable, which makes them hard to resist. The chances are that, at some point, you will get yourself a puppy or dog. More and more people are doing so across the world, which is great, but getting a pet is a big step to take. The fact that you are going to be taking care of that dog for anywhere up to 18 or 20 years means that you need to get that decision right.
You will see plenty of puppies for sale in Scotland and elsewhere, which means you get a good choice. But, the question still remains how do you choose the right puppy for you?
Sadly, there is a growing trend for people to pick a dog out primarily for the way it looks. They want something trendy.
Sometimes choosing a dog in that way works out ok, but usually this is the worst way to choose a pet. Of course, you need to like your dog, but as with human relationships, looks are not everything. Other factors are far more important. You need to think about their character and traits and whether you can take care of them.
An important consideration is how much space your dog will need. When they are puppies they will not take up a lot of room, but there is no point in getting a Great Dane if you live in a small house.
If you choose an active dog like a sports or working dog you will also need space for them outside as well as indoors. This type of dog hates to be cooped up in the house all day, so a home with a garden is best for them.
You also have to think about where you will exercise your pet. If you live in an area where they only the green space is a park, where the dog has to be kept on the lead, it is no good getting a big dog that needs to go for a run every day. You just will not be able to give him, or her, the right type of exercise in a place like that. Ideally, that type of dog should live close to open countryside.
Another important consideration is whether you have the time to take care of your dog. Some breeds of dogs require more time and attention than others do.
If you are short on time, you do not want a sports dog that needs to be walked for at least 45 minutes, twice a day. You also need to think about whether they need a special diet or have to be groomed every day. Both take time to provide.
Last, but no means least is the personality and character traits of your dog. Every breed of dog is different. Some are crazy, bouncy and into everything and full of energy, others are docile and like nothing better to sit on your lap all day. You need to look at other people’s pets and see which ones you are drawn to. Then read up about the personalities of the various breeds here. Only once you are sure which breed is right for you, should you go out and look for your puppy.
Dog parenting can be hard in the beginning; but, eventually, you will see that it is just as rewarding. You just have to make sure that you are making the right choice.
Photo credits: Unsplash here and here.
This is a collaborative post.
Welcome to Birds and Lilies! I'm Lou: mother, blogger and freelance writer. This is my lifestyle blog, where I talk about motherhood, infertility and IVF, beauty, my love for food and wine, as well as my thoughts about stuff, and our real-life and travel adventures.
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