Pet Talk: Getting a dog? Stop and think

So you think you’re ready to take on a dog this summer. You watch television and see all those well-behaved canines having a great time with their owners. While it’s true dogs make wonderful family members and animal companions, they don’t come like that. It takes a lot of work and begins before your adoption.

First, examine your lifestyle and the age and temperament of each family member. Does everyone in the family want a dog or are you just trying to placate a 6-year-old whining for a puppy? Do you live in an apartment or a house with a fenced-in yard, because that will certainly help determine the breed of dog. Do you work long hours? Do you plan on putting your dog in a kennel outside day and night, or are you truly looking for a new member of your family? You have to be willing to train, socialize, feed and exercise your dog, and pay the veterinary bills.

Size, age, temperament and breed are all important aspects to consider when choosing a dog. Different breed groups have some common general personality traits.

Breeds vary

Hounds consist of active hunting dogs that can make good family pets, but need to be exercised well.

Workers such as border collies have a strong instinct to work and expect and need to be given a job to do.

There are breeds that are known for protection, and they require a higher degree of socialization and obedience training than a smaller companion dog, such as a pug. But some of the smaller dogs can be stubborn and not always small-animal- or child-friendly. So do research.

When considering a purebred puppy or dog, you should be aware of genetic problems that run in some breeds. Knowing up front the major medical problems that could develop and the possible medical cost you might incur are considerations in choosing a particular breed. This is proactive, responsible dog ownership.

Choosing a purebred dog means finding a local respected breeder, where you can visit and meet dogs that have been bred and raised by the breeder. The breeder will make sure you will receive a health certificate certifying your puppy is free of known genetic problems. I recommend not buying from a pet store.

Although you may not have instant gratification in getting that puppy you want right away, you will end up getting a healthier and more socialized puppy for your family.

Another route

You also could go through a breed rescue.

Shelters and rescue groups have many mixed breeds and purebreds of all ages that can make wonderful family pets. Some of these dogs are already house- and obedience-trained. Some of these dogs need behavioral training because nobody took the time to show them what they needed to learn. Some of these dogs were given up because the people picked the wrong breed or had the wrong reasons for getting a dog in the first place.

Finally, take a little time to assess the dog’s reaction to small animals and children (even if you don’t have either of these, your neighbor could).

Test for food or toy aggression. Know what you are bringing home before you bring the dog into your home.

Contact Rene Knapp at helpingpaws@sbcglobal.net.

Norwich Bulletin