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  21 Things To Think About Before Purchasing A Puppy

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21 Things To Think About Before Purchasing A Puppy

(CBS) 1. COMPATIBILITY – Find a pet that is compatible with your lifestyle, family and other pets. You may need a pet that is HYPO-ALLERGENIC, such as the Malti Poo or Maltese breeds.

2. CARE AND MAINTENANCE – This requires time, money and energy. Some breeds are much more energetic than others. Do you have the time to exercise your pet?

3. RESEARCH THE DIFFERENT BREEDS - Each breed has their own unique personalities and temperaments. Some pets are more aggressive than others while there are those that are just cuddly, lovable, kissable and want a be your best friend. Choose what is best for your family.

4. BUDGET – What is the price you can afford to spend on your new pet? Then you must consider the other expenses that come with owning a new puppy such as vaccinations, food, flea and heart worm protection, collar, leash, grooming and vet visits.

5. HEALTH AND SIZE GUARANTEES – Written Health Guarantee is a must. If size is important to you, request a written size guarantee as well.

6. VETERINARIAN - Locate a vet that offers informative personal service for your pet's needs. Ask the vet about health issues in the breed you are considering.

7. SEX OF PET – Do you prefer a male or female?

8. PET SHEDDING - Consider the level of shedding you can tolerate in a pet (no shedding, minimum, moderate or high).

9. LONG OR SHORT COAT PET – Which type of coat do you want your pet to have? Short coats such as a Chihuahua, or a fluffy and full coat like the Malti Poos?

10. PET GROOMING – If you purchase a short coat pet, it will require less grooming versus the long and fluffy pet.

11. ENERGY LEVEL - What kind of energy level can you handle?
High: always ready for action and very playful
Moderate: always happy and playful, but not high strung
Calm: laid back and easy going, a lap dog

12. TEMPERAMENT - What kind of temperament do you want your dog to have?
Active and alert
Affectionate
Calm and placid
Confident and outgoing
Courageous and fearless
Devoted and loyal

13. BARKING BEHAVIOR – What type can you tolerate?
Above average: Barks at every sound and anything that moves
Moderate: Lets you know when you have a visitor or when they hear an out of the ordinary sound
Occasional: Only if they sense danger and feel something is definitely wrong

14. PUPPY PROOFING YOUR HOME – This is a must before bringing your new puppy home. Make sure all wires, cords, chewable objects, chocolate, medications, and cleaners are out of the puppy's way. Remember, puppies chew. Keep any rugs, shoes, socks, loose change, small objects that puppy could swallow, etc. out of puppy's way. By doing these things, you are protecting your pet.

15. VACCINES – Make sure of the vaccines the pet has already received. Ask for a copy of vaccine records to take to your vet. Has puppy been de-wormed recently? You do not want to get your pet, and then have it over vaccinated.

16. PET INSURANCE – There are several good pet insurance programs available today for your pet. Research these options, and we recommend you take the pet insurance. This could save you hundreds of dollars should your pet become ill or injured and have to be hospitalized.

17. TO SPAY OR NEUTER – Discuss with your vet the reasons to have your pet spayed or neutered and what age they recommend these procedures.

18. POTTY TRAINING – You must decide if you will potty train using puppy pads, outdoors or puppy litter. Which is best for your home environment?

19. REGISTRATION – Does your city require that you have your pet registered with them?

20. CHEWING – Get ready!! All puppies chew. Be prepared and have toys available for your new puppy or otherwise they will find furniture, shoes, socks, etc. to chew on.

21. MICRO CHIP YOUR PET – Should your pet become lost or stolen this is an excellent way to recognize your pet if found and prove ownership. Your vet can provide this service.

Information from Teacup and Toy Pets Boutique
10308 W. Hwy 80
Forney, TX 75126
Pet Boutique (972) 552-1989

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