Puppy Series #1: Thinking About A Puppy?

First in a Series.

Assuming that you are prepared to have a puppy in your life and that you have the time necessary for such a joy….er, challenge, then the next step is to go about getting one! Here are some things to think about as you begin your journey.

1. What type of dog matches my lifestyle?

This is the first question to ask yourself as it is so important. You want to avoid that situation in which you find that your adorable puppy grows into an adult dog that is completely incompatible with your lifestyle. You might like the looks of an energetic Siberian Husky…but if you dislike dog hair, lead a sedentary life, and live in a small apartment – a Husky is probably going to be a disasterous choice. Think very carefully about how you live and what your needs and wants are – and do two things that will help you to make an intelligent, informed choice.

First, run your breed preferences by someone you trust, and who knows you well. See if your breed choice makes sense to someone who can be objective, and if it doesn't - be prepared to get a second opinion or reconsider your selection.

Second, read the book "Paws to Consider" by Brian Kilcommons and Sarah Wilson. Unlike most breed books, this one is arranged by owner lifestyle, rather than by dog breed. Among others, you’ll find good options for the City Dog, The Nine-To-Five Dog, and the Low Shed Dogs, including pluses and minuses for each breed type. There’s also a handy section I wish all my clients would read: The Not-For-Everyone dogs.

2. Where should I get my puppy?

If you are interested in a purebred puppy, you might consider a reputable breeder. A good breeder will ensure that your pup is healthy and properly socialized when you are ready to take one home. Consider going to a dog show, like the Seattle Kennel Club Dog Show (March 12-13, at the Qwest Field Event Center) where you will not only have a great opportunity to talk to many different breeders, but also can meet some purebred rescue dogs there as well, all under one roof.

Rescuing a dog from a shelter or foster home can be a very rewarding experience, and there are several good ones in the area. Many shelter dogs make fantastic companions, and simply need an opportunity to settle into a forever home. Find out as much history as you can from the shelter, and specifically ask whether the pup able to stay with its mother for at least 3 weeks and with its littermates for 6 to 7 weeks. If so, the pup will have a much better chance of developing the social skills that he/she will need throughout life.

Some local rescue organizations to contact are:

Three Rivers Rescue – Snoqualmie
Humane Society – Eastgate
Ginger’s Pet Rescue – Issaquah
Seattle Purebred Dog Rescue – Seattle
Adoption Events at places local pet stores
Seattle Purebred Dog Rescue -

3. Are there any situations I should avoid?

As a general rules, walk away from hand-raised puppies, pups with no littermates, or pups separated from their litter prior to 6 weeks of age. Be very careful if you choose a puppy through the newspaper, from Craigslist, or via a pet store. These puppies can too often be from puppy mills or inexperienced breeders, and are usually understimulated and under socialized, which can lead to serious behavior and health problems later in life.

So, remember, look at your needs, take your lifestyle into consideration and use available resources to help you choose your puppy accordingly. The right puppy is out there waiting for you!

(This article published in the Jan/Feb 2011 edition of Issaquah Sammamish and Beyond magazine.)