Find the perfect puppy

Where Do You Begin Your Search?
Your local animal shelter is a good place to start as well as local rescue groups or searching the internet under petfinder.com. These resources usually have a wide variety of puppies. Generally, these puppies receive careful medical exams and have already had initial vaccinations. Spaying or neutering is usually included in the adoption fee and can be performed when the animal reaches the correct age. Most shelters have excellent support services such as free behavioral counseling.

In addition to visiting these resources, you may also wish to talk to local obedience training facilities, a groomer or two, contact reputable breeders and obtain advice from a practicing veterinarian in your search for that perfect puppy.

Be Sure To Consider Your Lifestyle
Breeds such as hunting or working dogs require more exercise than some smaller breeds and may crowd an apartment or small home. Do you have a fence to contain your new companion? What about grooming? Do keep in mind that all dogs shed their hair coat at least twice a year (Spring and Fall). Some kinds of dogs shed constantly and some breeds have to be professionally groomed. Groomers can provide further information on which breeds possess which traits.

by Char Bebiak, head trainer and an animal behaviorist for Purina Pet Foods