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Puppy Selection: Which Puppy Do I Choose?

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Summary: Do not feel guilty when you use your head instead of your heart! Don’t let your desire to take a puppy home rule over your common sense. We provide some ideas for you as you go about your shopping for the perfect puppy.

All puppies are darling so how can I choose which one will be best for me? The number one rule in picking out the “perfect one” is to take your time and use your head not your heart. Too often hasty decisions lead to regret and abandoned pets. Before visiting the breeder, print off a checklist of items that you would like to look for specifically in the breed you are contemplating. This is generally recognized as the breed standard which is available at www.akc.org.
When choosing the number “1” to become part of your family there are a few hints. You want to choose a puppy from a very healthy looking litter. We recommend that you observe the following:
  • Notice if all the puppies appear alert (don’t judge to harshly if the puppies seem tired. Ask the breeder if they have just finished eating).
  • Check to see if they seem well fed.
  • See if their eyes, noses and ears are free of any discharge.
  • The puppies should have coats that are bright and shiny.
  • Walk a few feet away from the litter and call them. The bossy puppy may come quickly and give you an aggressive nip. The shy one will not come. The likeable one may hesitate at first but then will come to you.

Play with the different puppies. Roll each one on to its back and see how it responds. It is usually best to choose the one that may be uneasy for a short time and then settles down. Avoid choosing the puppy that seems real aggressive and snappy. Do not be tempted to feel like you must save the shy one that goes to hide and trembles. The best choice would be the playful one that appears confident and happy.

Feel free to ask the breeder all the questions you want to. The breeder should be able to answer your questions to your satisfaction. Do not feel guilty when you use your head instead of your heart! Don’t let your desire to take a puppy home rule over your common sense. If you don’t find that puppy that is just right for you then look else where. It is best to take more time looking than to regret a fast, emotional decision.

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