Doghouse UK

The Right Dog

You have decided to take a dog into your life, now you must make many other considerations.

Should you rehome an adult dog or buy a young puppy?
It can be a very rewarding experience to rehome an adult dog, (puppies are also sometimes candidates for adoption in shelters), and a rescued dog is another dog saved and provided with the care he needs.
Adults are occasionally a little stressed due to their changing circumstances and possible former bad treatment, but lots of TLC will bring them back into condition. An adult may be chosen by someone who doesn't have the necessary time or ability to commit to caring for a puppy which needs lots attention and training during the first few months of its life.
Sometimes breeders will offer an adult which is no longer to be used for show or breeding purposes.

Male or Female?
Some people believe a female dog is more gentle and loyal than a male dog. I personally do not agree with this as I have had both and in my opinion there is no difference. All dogs have their own characters as do humans and some are naturally more loving than others whatever sex they are.
A female dog will come into season for about 3 weeks roughly every 6 months. During this time she will be attractive to male dogs and must be kept away from them, her exercise periods usally kept to minimum.
Male dogs tend to stray in search of a mate, particularly if they scent a female in season.
Spaying & Neutering can solve this particular problem in both sexes and is also beneficial to health.

Which Breed?
There are hundreds of different breeds of dog, of all sizes and descriptions. If you decide to buy a pure bred dog you will be aware of its size - do you have enough space indoors and out for a large dog?
A toy or small breed would be more suitable if accomodation is limited, but there are many other considerations. Does he need large amounts of exercise and are you able to provide that? Is the breed you have in mind long or short coated? Can you spend time grooming him daily? Does he need professional clipping? (Another expense). Is he a breed noted for aggressive tendencies? Is he good with children?
It is a good idea to research thoroughly the breed of dog you have in mind before you decide to buy. If you have a particular breed in mind you could visit dog shows and talk to the breeders there who are only too happy to show off their pride and joy. They will be able to tell you all you need to know about their breed.
Visit Pedigree Dogs.co.uk for detailed information on all dog breeds.

Cross Breeds.
Cross bred dogs are usually much cheaper to buy than pure bred dogs and often don't suffer from genetical problems that in-breeding has forced upon many pedigree breeds.
Cross bred dogs are generally loving, faithful companions, but a first cross does not necessarily bring out the best of both breeds, sometimes the aggressive tendencies of either or both are most prominent. A good tip (on buying any puppy) is to see it with litter mates and its mother if possible.
Do not forget the mongrel whose parentage is long forgotten. These dogs sometimes come "Free to good home!" and usually make excellent family pets. The main drawback is that you cannot predict what they will look like or how big they will grow. If that is of no importance then a mongrel is a good choice. Please remember that mongrels are not hardier or less prone to disease than pure bred dogs. All dogs can pick up fatal diseases, and vaccinations to prevent this happening must be given whatever the parentage of the dog.

You have chosen the right dog for you, do you know Where to Buy him?

If you have any questions or can offer advice concerning choosing a puppy please check out
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