The natural thing to do is to start looking at places that are close to home when buying a dog. These aren’t always the best places though. Do your homework; put in some time and effort and you’re more likely to find the perfect dog for you.
Breeder
If you’re looking to buy a registered purebred, you’ll want to buy from a breeder, which can be quite expensive depending on the breed. You can find them at dog shows, on the Internet, through clubs, or simply by checking the yellow pages. By buying a puppy from a conscientious breeder you’ll get support and you’ll ensure your new dog will be healthy and happy. You may find that the best breeder for your choice of breed may be in another city or across the country. It can be well-worth the expense and inconvenience of buyting from afar to ensure you get the dog you want. Be sure to read 10 Questions You Should Ask When Picking a Breeder before you make your decision.
Dog Shelters
Some shelters have as strict requirements as breeders do. They may not allow certain dogs to be adopted into homes with young kids, or they may require a fenced yard. A few will even require a 24-hour waiting period to make sure the adopter isn’t acting on a whim. They’re looking out for the dog’s best interests to give them a second chance at a good life.
When adopting a dog, ask whether any history is known about it. Some dogs are brought in by former owners. Reasons vary from allergies and divorce, which are unrelated to the dog itself, to behavioral issues, which may pose problems to you as well. If the dog has been at the shelter for more than a few days, the staff should be able to provide you with helpful info about it, whether it barks a lot, is friendly, shy or trained.
Many shelter dogs have a negative history and may display nervous behavior at the shelter. After a week in a loving home, such dogs often come out of their shell and can seem like a completely different dog. Some shelters have fostering programs that allow prospective owners to bring home dogs they’re considering for adoption. This is a great way to find out if a dog will be a good fit for your family.
Shelters have adoption fees and procedures. Fees usually range between $50 and $75, and often include free spaying or neutering. Some have programs to ensure that dogs are altered and properly cared for in their new homes.
Pet Stores
Most pet stores have stopped selling dogs and cats, preferring to deal with merchandise that doesn’t require the care that live animals do. Some will bring in dogs from local shelters to encourage adoption.
A few pet stores, however, still sell puppies from various sources from an owner that can’t find homes for all his puppies to brokers to larger commercial enterprises. Be sure that the store you buy from has a caring staff that spends adequate time holding and playing with the puppies. A puppy needs regular attention to develop good social skills.
Pet store prices are usually similar to breeder prices. Be sure to ask the same questions you would ask when picking a breeder.
If you buy from a pet store, take your dog to the vet within 24 hours. Store refund or replacement policies are often only in effect within 24-48 hours of purchase.
