Companion Connection

Articles of Interest

So you’re thinking about adopting a puppy.  Before you do, there are a number of things to be considered:

Do I have sufficient free time to spend with the puppy now and later when the puppy becomes a dog? Dogs are social animals. They need companionship, especially from their human, to be happy, healthy and well adjusted. In this sense, they are just like humans. Ignoring their need for companionship will create serious behavior issues which will hamper you relationship

Does my house or apartment have enough space for the puppy/dog to run and play;

Do I want to make a commitment to another life that will, most likely, last 10, 15 or even more years depending on the size;

Do I have the discretionary income to properly care for the animal – food, veterinary care, grooming, etc.;

Will my “puppy love” grow into “dog love” as my pet grows older?

 

The first four bullets are easy to answer because they can be somewhat objectively measured. The last bullet is more difficult because most of us can’t foresee how that cute, huggable, furry, little puppy could possibly turn into Mr. (Doggie) Hyde.

 

 

There are several reasons why cute, little puppy may undergo that transmogrification:

 

The Wrong Breed. Some dogs need a lot of activity. Others prefer sitting on the couch with their human, getting their head scratched. Why do you want a dog? The Internet, book stores and pet stores have a significant amount of information about the many breeds of dogs. You will find many dog breeds that match your reasons for wanting a dog. A little research may save you and your new puppy a lot of heartbreak. And please understand that dogs do get broken hearts, just like people.

Lack of Training. Even if you get the right breed, your new puppy needs to understand what behavior is wanted and which will not be tolerated. The puppy will learn that through training. If you are not a skilled trainer, you can find training classes through most pet stores or from friends who have trained their pets.

Little or No Socialization. Early on your puppy should have as many varied experiences and meet as many people as possible. The meetings the pup has with people and the early experiences must be pleasant.  This type of socialization will keep the pup from growing into a fearful dog. Any situation or type of person not covered in the early socialization process may create problems later on.

Lack of Love and Attention. Even if you do everything else wrong. Being attentive to and loving your pup will generally keep Mr. (Doggie) Hyde at bay.

 

Thinking of Getting a New Puppy?

Tip of the Week by Jerry Vinyard

"The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated...

I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it is to protection by man from the cruelty of man." -Mahatma Gandhi-

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