| First, decide what breed of dog will be | | | | can read the dog's disposition by the way he acts |
| comfortable in your home. A small dog will fit | | | | with the owner and if it's a puppy, with his |
| anywhere; a large one needs wide open spaces. A | | | | litter-mates. |
| short haired dog is easily groomed; and a | | | | (3) Inspect the dog's skin. There should be no |
| long-haired dog takes a little more time and effort | | | | signs of dandruff or dryness. Avoid dogs with |
| to keep good-looking. There's a lot of information | | | | sore patches or areas where the skin has been |
| to consider before choosing a new dog. Be sure | | | | irritated. Sometimes these and other hidden |
| to consult your local veterinarian, read all available | | | | symptoms can be underlying signs of a serious |
| literature as well as make sure the entire family | | | | illness. |
| agrees on the choice. | | | | (4) Inquire about the dog's health records. Find if |
| When you're ready to start looking around for | | | | the the dog has been wormed and are his/her |
| that special puppy or dog out of the puppy stage | | | | shots up-to-date. You should already know that |
| check local listings, pet shelters, visit online | | | | you will have to obtain a permanent veterinarian |
| classifieds, and other pet websites dedicated to | | | | to administer continuous disease preventing |
| matching adoptable dogs to those seeking | | | | vaccinations. |
| ownership. There's also the option of going to a | | | | (5) Make sure you have your guarantees written |
| pet store that sells puppies. Though I'm not a fan | | | | and signed in similar form to a bill of sale (if you're |
| of this option, it is an available one. Resist the | | | | buying your dog from a private owner, pet store, |
| temptation to buy or adopt the first dog that you | | | | etc.). This will come in handy if after a short |
| see; you'll understand why in the long run. | | | | period of bringing your dog home, the dog shows |
| Here are a few tips to mull over when you're | | | | signs of illness not evident at the time of |
| ready to start looking for your new dog: | | | | purchase. You may or may not be able to obtain |
| (1) The physical health of the dog will show in its | | | | a refund or choose another dog. A good faith |
| strength and temperament. The ideal dog should | | | | owner will make sure this is an available option. |
| be well-rounded (no pot bellies), have a thick and | | | | Do not, under any circumstances, attempt to |
| shiny coat, clear eyes, and simply act in the | | | | perform the veterinarian's job. If any doubt |
| characteristic of its dog breed. For example, | | | | festers about your dog's condition, give your dog |
| poodles are very entertaining, "show-offs" so to | | | | the necessary first aide and immediately |
| speak. A healthy, active poodle will be obvious. If | | | | thereafter get the dog to the animal hospital. |
| it's sluggish, timid, or shaky, keep going - it's not | | | | These are just a few points to consider prior to |
| the one to choose. | | | | choosing the family dog of your dreams. Hopefully |
| (2) The dog you'll want to bring home should be | | | | these tips will help you make the ideal choice for |
| playful, curious, and friendly. Though it may take a | | | | you and your family. |
| minute for the dog to adjust to new people, you | | | | |