by C. L. Jarm

Created on: February 11, 2009   Last Updated: February 12, 2009

It is time to purchase a family dog. The question now is which are you going to choose an adult dog or a puppy. There are many pros and cons for both acquisitions. This is a serious decision and should be done with logic and understanding of both your situation and the animals.

At this time of economic strife, the first question to ask yourself is, can you afford the price of the puppy or adult dog. Food cost is about the same for either the puppy or the adult, depending on the size of the breed. The puppy may require puppy pads if it is housebroken and chew toys. Chew toys, of course are good for adult dogs also. Puppies will cost a little bit more because of veternarians check ups and vaccinations. However, remember the adult dog also requires a vaccination once a year

Puppies usually cost more in the Pet shops, if that is where you are going. Shops tend to drop the prices down as the dog matures. You could also adopt a dog or a puppy from one of many thousands of shelters. In the passed years, the hurricanes and tornadoes have wiped out the homes of many of these dogs. The economy also has forced some dog owners to give up their pets because they could not feed them. You might want to look here because the cost will be the same for either. The difference is you do not always know what situation the dog or puppy has had. If you choose a puppy, it may well not be as stained mentally as a larger dog from abuse. Consider carefully where the canine has been and ask questions. All of the shelters should have this information on hand and will be happy to relate it to you.

Dogs make great companions and friends, but make sure the size will accommodate your family. As you consider the pros of that cute little unstained puppy, also consider the fact that cute little puppies do grow into adult dogs. Depending on the breed, that can be very large or it may be tiny. It would be best to look up breed descriptions before you go looking for your new family member. Places like Animal Planet and the Kennel Club websites are good places to begin your search. Make sure you look up the temperament and normal weight of the breed. Some remain looking like puppies forever like Miniature Pinschers or Shih Tzu's. Keep in mind that cute little black Labrador will turn into a seventy-pound dog.

Overall, which is better to acquire, a puppy or an adult dog? Looking at the economy and the statistics and fate of all the dogs, adopting an adult dog would win.

To know that you have given a home to an otherwise homeless dog will warm your heart.

http://www.dogbiz.com

http://animal.discovery.c om/breedselector

http://www.akc.org/

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