Important Facts to Remember
It is worth reiterating the following facts, purely because the consequences of which are huge:
- A puppy is not a toy, to make your children happy for a few weeks until the novelty wears off.
- A puppy is not a teaching aid, guaranteed to instil a sense of responsibility in older children.
- A puppy is not a burglar alarm, to guard your house 24/7 and scare off any unwanted visitors.
- A puppy is not a gift, unless the giver is very sure that a puppy is the desired present and the recipient is able to care for it.
- A puppy is not unbreakable and any “repairs” will be costly.
- A puppy is not an investment to breed and become a method of receiving cash back. Breeding a litter is a huge responsibility for anyone involved.
Selecting the right breed: It is vital to remember that the dog you choose will be a new member of the family for ten years or more. Select a breed of dog that will compliment you and your family’s lifestyle, and not one that will become a financial burden or daily irritant.
Purebred or Mixed Breed?
These can be defined as dogs that have five generations worth of ancestors of the same breed that have been carefully developed to serve a specific purpose. Purebreds should match to a standard size, colour, coat, and have certain temperament characteristics desirable for their breed.
The top purebred dogs are registered with well-known associations such as the Kennel Club, as well as many lesser-known registries. Remember that registration is not a guarantee of quality, as it is solely your responsibility as the buyer to invest the time and effort into assuring a puppy is of good quality and health before buying.
These are a combination of two or more recognised breeds of dogs. Some believe that mixed breeds are smarter and healthier than purebreds due to their more widely mixed gene pool. It is often 50-50 for knowing the identity of their parents.
It is important to remember that most mixed dogs are the product of human ignorance and irresponsibility, which can result in passed on traits such as health problems or bad temperament from the parents. The wide gene pool that supposedly makes them healthier also makes it difficult to predict their mature size, coat type and length and temperament.
Mixed breeds often make wonderful pets and great companions, but are best acquired as adults, when their size and temperament are fully established, or from private parties who have given them required shots and good care, and have the parents available for you to verify health and temperament.
