Puppies: Where Should Your Family Start the Search?

When you make the decision to welcome a puppy into your family's life there is no question that it is a huge commitment, but the bigger question now may be - Where should I get my new best friend from?

The answer has sparked a huge debate across the entire country. Many believe that you should find a reputable breeder; others say you should adopt from a rescue organization, and some see nothing wrong with getting your new puppy from a neighborhood pet store. There are pros and cons to all of these options.

Rescue Organization. It is commonly said that every family should consider adopting from a rescue organization because their animals need a second chance for a loving family. This is true that rescue dogs are in need of loving homes, however; adopting from one of these organizations may not be in the best interest for everyone. Most of these dogs have abusive pasts and they need a special type of owner who can devote A LOT of time to proper socialization and training. If you have a lot of patience and are really devoted to the cause of helping a puppy with these types of special needs than a rescue organization can be a remarkable partnership for your family. However, if you are looking a puppy that is, for lack of a better term, a blank slate than it would be best to look into other options. Also, before even applying to become an adoptee from a rescue organization you must meet a strict list of requirements usually including a home visit, a fence, a family member home during the day, an obedience contract, and the same moral standards as the rescue organization. It can be tough to obtain a rescue dog, but worth it all if you are dedicated and willing to make the necessary lifestyle changes to accommodate your puppy!

Breeder. A breeder is a person or group who mates their dogs to create puppies with characteristics that the breeder desires. In other words, a reputable breeder breeds healthy and happy dogs. However, reputable is the key word. There are many breeders in the world who breed just to make money and distinguishing reputable from dishonorable can be tricky. Also, breeders often require potential families be subject to an interview and put down a hefty deposit only to be put on a waiting list. Breeders are expensive and waiting lists can take years. Although, in the end if you can do your homework and find a quality breeder you will most likely end up with a quality puppy. It is important to keep in mind that breeders are running a business so profits are important to them also! Most will offer a health guarantee, but just because you bought from a breeder does not ensure your new puppy will be everything you dreamed of! Puppies have different personalities no matter where they come from! Buying your puppy from a breeder is a good choice for some, but for those who want to spend less and wait less I would consider looking into other options.

Pet Store. A pet store is simply a business that sells animals. Pet stores are under the most scrutiny than any other type of group that provides puppies. They are often labeled as dirty, abusive, or puppy mill supporters. While, in some cases this slander is deserved there are still high quality pet stores around that really care about uniting puppies with loving homes. Pet stores generally have lower prices and you can bring your new puppy home as soon as you pay for it. Before considering a pet store check with Better Business Bureau and do some online searching for reviews of the particular store. I promise if you search hard enough you can find many pet stores that are of the highest merit. However, because puppies are placed in close corridor with other puppies many dogs from pet stores develop minor sicknesses such as kennel cough. These can be cured with antibiotics and if you are working with a good pet store they will have warranties to cover the cost. Never buy from a pet store that does not offer a health warranty on their puppies. Despite all of the controversy surrounding pet stores they can be a very good option for some families who wish to get their new puppy now.

All puppies require their person to have patience and time to devote to their upbringing. So no matter where your new family member comes from they need to be trained properly to form into the well-behaved friendly dogs every family desires. Before beginning your puppy search do some serious research of what breeds would fit into your lifestyle and no matter which option you choose in finding your new puppy make sure you thoroughly check references. High quality puppies can be found within all of the options listed above, however; it is your job to find them! Good Luck!