Making the decision to get a puppy or rescue a dog from a shelter is serious business. There are many things to consider, so it’s important for you to do your homework beforehand.
The AKC website (http://www.akc.org/) has a wealth of information on every dog breed registered with the AKC. It’s a great tool for researching the breed you’re interested in to determine whether or not the dog will fit in with your lifestyle. There are various groups that specific breeds fall under:
Sporting Group
Working Group
Herding Group
Terrier Group
Non-Sporting
Hounds
Toy
Gundogs
Keep in mind your lifestyle and living arrangements. For example, you wouldn’t want to get a Great Dane if your live in a relatively small home or apartment. If you’re an inactive person, you definitely should not get a dog from the sporting, working or herding groups.
Consider the time of year. Many people get a puppy as a Christmas gift for the kids. Unless you’re prepared to frequently take the pup out in harsh winter conditions, wait until spring. Housebreaking a puppy takes a lot of time and effort. It’s highly inadvisable to get a puppy, put it on a retractable leash or long line and let it go in the yard or on the front lawn to potty as you stand in the doorway because there’s snow on the ground.
Adopting a shelter dog: There are many wonderful, loving dogs that need a good home. Keep in mind that shelter life can be stressful for a dog. Ask about the dog’s history – was it surrendered due to behavior problems (the #1 reason dogs are surrendered); was it found as a stray; taken from a backyard breeder. Discuss your lifestyle with a staff member of the shelter. They can help match you with a dog that will fit in with your family and lifestyle. If you find a dog that you fall in love with, spend time with the dog at the shelter; take it for walks. Get to know the dog to make absolutely sure he or she is “the one”.
Check out local rescue organizations for adopting, as well.
Before you buy or bring your rescue dog home, consult with a trainer to advise you how to prepare your home, provide info on the things you will need to properly care for your dog and help you get off on the right foot from the very beginning. Hire the trainer to begin training as soon as possible. If you get a puppy, a trainer can guide you through the critical socialization stage. If a puppy isn’t properly socialized, you will more than likely face behavior problems in the future.