by Carol Coleman

Created on: October 02, 2009

It is important to do your research before buying a dog. Do you know how much you can spend? Do you know how active you will be in the dog's life? How many people will the dog be around? Do you know the animal control laws for your area? Are you prepared for a lifetime commitment to the dog? How active a pet do you want?

If you are not sure about the dog you want, check out Purina's website: http://www.purina.com/dogs/breedselector/index.aspx.

Pedigree has a similar program. These will use your criteria for picking a purebred breed. You must remember that what is listed for the breed is the general standard. Individual animals may have traits that are not breed standard.

Once you have selected one or more breeds, check for local kennel clubs and for local dog shows. Find out from the club who the superintendent is and go to that website for the breed's show and ring times. A dog show superintendent prints the show catalogue, furnishes the equipment and handles most of the paperwork of a dog show for the dog club holding the show.

A dog show will give you a chance to see different breeds and the people who love them. You can talk to breeders and owners about the dog type that you are interested. Responsible breeders will give you both sides of owning a particular breed. They may know someone who has a litter for sale or who has an older animal in need of a good home. A responsible breeder will question you about your ability to provide for a dog.

Before you purchase a dog, check out the breed standard, the breeder, the dog's dam (mother) and the dog's sire (father, if present). Observe the litter and how the puppies interact with each other. Carefully consider how your life may change and what sacrifices you are willing to make to keep the dog. Check out the local obedience classes that are offered and their prices. Most importantly, check out the local animal control laws. How much is a license? Do you need a fenced in yard? What will the veterinary costs be? Remember that invisible fencing does not keep predators away from your dog. If there are coyotes in the area, an invisible fence will not keep you pet safe.

Check out veterinarians. Ask them if they know of any health problems for the breed(s) that you are considering. You can also go to the library and look for books on genetic diseases of dogs. This can be a factor when considering any popular breed. Unfortunately, some people forget the breed standard and go for the nearest available stud. They do not consider the ramifications of using a dog that has bad hips or a bad disposition. On the dog show circuit are many tales about how certain breeds went from family friendly to dangerous because of using a dog that had a nasty temperament.

Once you've chosen your breed, go to a couple more shows and check out what is there. You don't have to buy a puppy. You can get an older dog that will love having a home with you. You can contact rescue leagues and for a fee get a dog that has been thoroughly tested to ensure that it will make a great pet.

The more care you take before you buy, the longer and happier time you will have with your new dog. Local kennel clubs will be more than happy to help you meet people who have the particular breed(s) that you are considering. This is a purchase that can last 10 or more years. Be responsible to your own happiness and to the dog's happiness.

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