[Puzzle No More] [Non-Competitive Obedience Training for Your Dog. Veterinarian Approved. Veterinarian Recommended.] [Presented by Lauren Faggard, PhD, CBC, IACP]
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[ Home > Dog Training, Dog Obedience and Dog Care "Quick Tips" > Picking the Perfect K-9 ]

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Picking the Perfect K-9

First consider your life style and your basic preference: type, size and temperament. Once you have an idea of what you might like, do some serious research. When making your study, look for information on adult size, and exercise and grooming requirements. Contact the veterinarian you have chosen and ask health questions.

The American Kennel Club divides purebred dogs into 7 categories. Within these groups are certain breed characteristics.
  1. Sporting Dogs: need to be kept busy with an outlet such as fetching. They love to play and are active.

  2. The Hound is an independent thinker and should not be trusted off lead until trained. They will track above all else! They need lots of obedience.

  3. Working Dogs: have a lot of drive with a protective instinct. That is combined with strength. Obedience should start at an early age. Working dogs can be difficult to handle.

  4. Terriers are the diggers, barkers, jumpers and are usually up to no good. They are very feisty and energetic. Start obedience training very early.

  5. The Toy breeds were bred for companions. They are difficult to housetrain and in most cases yippy. This group is not well behaved and needs early obedience training before bad habits start.

  6. The non-sporting group is not very cohesive. Some are possessive and territorial while others are high energy. This group must be studied very carefully.

  7. Herding dogs were bred to herd. Remember everyone is fair game: you, other pets, neighbor's children and the jogger. This high energy group can get into a lot of trouble if they are not given an outlet for their physical and mental needs.
Now that you have done your homework regarding breed selection, let's pick a puppy. Remember the first eight weeks of a puppy's development is critical. You want to purchase from a breeder that socializes and handles the puppies before they are old enough to leave their mother. Puppies raised with lots of human contact end up being outrageous adult dogs. When picking out your breeder you want a breeder that will ask you as many questions as you ask them. Be thrilled not offended at the breeder's interest. Ask if there is a contract. Breeders who use contracts care about the future of their breed. If you want a rescue puppy, visit the shelter several times. Ask questions about the health, temperament and history of the pet you want. Remember, a shelter puppy may not have received the care and attention in the early weeks and you might have to overcome some health problems. Take the risk and be prepared. All puppies should look healthy with clean, shiny coat and must be free of parasites. Eyes and ears should be free of discharge. Puppies should be active and interested in you.