How to Buy a Healthy and Happy Puppy

I could tell you horror stories about "puppy mills"-where puppies are bred and distributed around the country in freight containers to pet stores-but I won't. You surely know it's bad.

The key is to avoid buying your puppy from a pet store; even if they claim the puppy is from a legitimate private breeder (and not a cruel puppy mill), this is a claim that is difficult to trace or authenticate.

If you get a "puppy mill" animal, it may suffer physical and mental health problems-some of which can be profoundly distressing to your family (such as biting, increased aggression, and early death due to a genetic disorder). Puppy mills often in-breed, which can lead to sad defects.

So, where should you buy a puppy? From a private breeder in your area, preferably in your home state so the drive will not be too long or stressful for the puppy.

Breeders typically charge $300 to $400 for an eight to ten week old puppy; some dishonest pet stores will charge you upward of $1,700 for an in-demand breed of dog, even if it is from a puppy mill or disreputable source. Clearly, breeders are not only the humane option, they are cheaper.

You can find breeders in your local newspaper's classified listings or on online forums dedicated to whatever breed you are interested in. Once a breeder places an ad saying they have a new litter, you should visit as soon as possible-you want to get the best possible selection.

In addition to playing with the puppies to find one that looks healthy, happy, and that emotionally "grabs you", also pay close attention to how the puppy's parents look and behave. Do they look healthy? Are they emotionally stable and friendly around strangers such as yourself? Or are they vicious and aggressive?

Also, get a feel for the breeder's personality-does he or she spend a lot of time playing with the puppies? You want a puppy that is "socialized" from day one; a puppy simply left in a cage for four to eight weeks straight (the first two months of its life) can develop anti-social tendencies later in life, such as biting, snarling, etc.

Chances are, you will find a great puppy, but definitely do pay attention to these other factors. Also, don't buy the first puppy you see (unless it really catches you) because even a small state like Delaware or Rhode Island will have literally hundreds of breeders to choose from. Just check the newspaper each weekend and call for an appointment to visit the new litters.

Also ask about immunizations-if the breeder has already taken your puppy to the veterinarian for its shots or not. Good luck!