Source: File developed with the help of the veterinarians of the Royal Canin Research and Development Centre).
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Choosing a puppy: Dogs have always been the epitome of loyalty for humans, so for many they are the very best of domesticated animals. However, taking a dog into your life demands careful consideration of a number of important questions. |
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Which Breed?
Certain breeds are known for their dominant character; German Shepherds are said to be obedient, Labradors affectionate with children, Greyhounds independent. But despite of their innate nature, dogs cannot be classified in such a categorical way, because experience plays a big part in how the dog's character develops.
It is best to choose a breed with weight & height suitable for your lifestyle. It is probably not the best idea to choose a Yorkshire terrier if you are looking for a guard dog, or a Great Dane if you plan to leave it behind in a flat all day. Generally, while sma ller breeds can be more highly strung, they require less living space than medium breeds. Large & Giant breeds always require a lot of living space.Price will also be a factor. Price depends on the dog's pedigree and how rare the dog is.Regardless of the breed and the purchase price, it is vital to bear in mind that throughout its life a dog costs money and demands care and attention. |
| Male or Female? Females are generally calmer and gentler than males. They are also smaller. But the main disadvantage with a bitch is oestrus (heat or season), which generally occurs twice a year, although the frequency varies depending on the breed. |
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Where to Buy? There are many different options for dog buyers, including private sellers, specialized stores and kennels. But whichever option buyers choose they must insist on the essential points like the proof of the origin of the puppy and the traceability. They should also carefully inspect how the puppies are housed. Moreover, individual breeds have a predisposition to a specific range of genetic diseases, so it is important to ensure that the parents have been tested for these, depending on the tests available. |
 The ideal age?Good breeders know about every aspect of their dogs. It is important to check the living conditions of the puppies. The more contact they have with people of all ages, the less chance they will have any problem with children. The puppy goes through a number of stages before it can move to its new home. It needs to live long enough with its mother to learn what it is to be a dog. Contact with humans is also important. By around seven weeks old the puppy can begin contact with strangers. |
 Which puppy in the litter?The health & character of the dog are two good criteria for choosing a puppy. The puppy should have a pedigree certificate (if appropriate).. The puppy you choose should not smell unpleasant or dirty. Its stool should be well shaped without any trace of blood. It should have bright eyes & clean nose and ears. The coat should be neither dull nor brittle. Character-wise, the puppy should be happy and playful with both its littermates and humans. It can be hard to make a choice if all the puppies in the litter are healthy. This is where the tests designed by the American animal behaviorist William Campbell can be helpful. They should preferably be carried out on seven-week old puppies. |
