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"He is your friend, your partner, your defender, your dog. You are his life, his love, his leader. He will be yours, faithful and true, to the last beat of his heart. You owe it to him to be worthy of such devotion." Author Unknown |
Choosing to bring a dog into the family is not a decision to be made lightly. It is a commitment for the life of the animal- usually 10 or more years. There are many homeless domestic animals whose previous owners decided things "just weren't working out". In most cases, these people didn't think enough about the responsibilities that come with pets, or didn't do enough research on the type of pet they chose. Animals are not interchangeable and not disposable. Owners need to make a commitment to provide food, shelter, exercise, proper training, and veterinary care. Pets need to be kept safe and owners need to have time to spend with them. Pets can give a great deal of love and enjoyment and really ask very little in return. We hope that this information will help prospective owners make a good decision that will lead to a long and happy relationship with a new dog.
Do Your Homework |
Should you choose a purebred, research the breed so that you know what to expect. Hunting dogs, for example, often require a great deal of exercise. A guard dog breed is likely to be very protective and need a more educated owner and consistent obedience work. Herding dogs may nip at your heels and attempt to herd whatever is handy (kids, cats, bikes). Of course, these traits will vary depending on the dog's breeding- a dog from pet lines may be "softer" than a dog bred for security work or a show dog, but the underlying temperament should be true to the breed.
Adopting a Dog |
Knowledge of breed temperaments can come in handy whether you want a purebred or a pound puppy- the dog's breed origins will give hints as to its behavior and personality. Should you choose a purebred dog, consider breed rescue as an option. Most breeds have national rescue organizations dedicated to finding good homes for dogs whose owners can no longer keep them. These organizations often have prospective owners complete detailed questionnaires to insure compatibility between a dog and its new home. Dogs go to rescue for a variety of reasons- some of the most common are divorce, moving, "not having enough time for the dog". There are good, well trained dogs who can use good homes available. The Humane Society also has purebred dogs- after you have done your research and determined what breed works for you, visit their website for a list of dogs in need of a home.
Click here for more about Rescue
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Finding a Breeder |
If you choose to purchase a purebred dog, research the breeder. Take the time to find a someone who breeds for what you want- some emphasize temperament or working ability, some are more concerned with looks and some just turn out puppies. Ask to see their facility and spend time with their dogs. A responsible breeder can tell you what health problems are inherent to the breed. For instance, if displaysia is common (as it is with most large and giant breeds), the parents should be OFA (Orthopedic Foundation of America) certified. Most responsible breeders will ask you to have pet quality dogs spayed or neutered before you have the dog papered. Many will ask you to let them know if you can't keep the dog so that they can either take it back or find it a new home.
Resources |
Information on choosing a breed:
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www.wonderpuppy.net/choose.htm
note:
these tests are a way to narrow down your choices, but you still need to
visit
with breeders and other people who own the breed you've chosen. A
quick
questionnaire can't begin to cover the day to day of living with a dog.
Information on choosing a responsible breeder:
A Comparison of Responsible and Backyard Breeders
Books to help you choose the right dog:
The Right Dog for You- Daniel Tortora
Are You My Dog?- Dr. Janet Ryckert
A Dog for the Kids- Mordecai Siegal
The Perfect Puppy- Benjamin L. Hart
The
Idaho Capitol City Kennel Club is another source for breed
information.
Call 388-1514 for more
information
City D.O.G. urges you to spay or neuter your pet
© City Dog Owner's Group