| So you think you want to add a dog to your | | | | Barking ... This can be a problem, as much for |
| family. Before you go out and find a cute little | | | | neighbors as for the owners. Although dogs can |
| puppy you should do some research. | | | | be trained to control the habit some dogs and |
| There are many things to consider before | | | | particulartend to bark more than others. |
| deciding on a breed or even on whether you | | | | Expenses ...This includes a great deal of things, |
| should get a puppy or an older dog. Your dog | | | | from the cost of the purchase of the dog, |
| should match your family and your lifestyle. | | | | vaccinations and other veterinarian expenses, |
| That may sound silly at first but let me explain. | | | | food and treats, toys,collars, ID tags, licenses (if |
| You would not want to have a huge dog living in a | | | | applicable), fencing of the yard (if needed), dog |
| small apartment. Neither of you would be happy. | | | | door, grooming supplies, dog bed, kennel, dog |
| And you have to keep in mind the size that a | | | | bowls... |
| puppy will be when full grown, believe me, they | | | | If you want to breed dogs, show dogs, a dog |
| will get there in no time at all. | | | | that can hunt, or pull a sled, you may need to |
| Also consider the fact that puppies require a lot | | | | take more time and care in researching breeders |
| of attention, especially during the first six months. | | | | and bloodlines of the dog you choose, but |
| Remember, they are babies. Also keep in mind | | | | otherwise you may be just as happy with a dog |
| that smaller breeds will be more fragile and may | | | | from your local shelter. |
| not be well-suited for families with small children. | | | | I hope this article has given you some things to |
| However, that is a judgment call. | | | | think about. Dogs make wonderful pets. I cannot |
| Decide if you want an indoor dog or an outdoor | | | | remember a time in my life that I did not have a |
| dog. Some dogs cannot tolerate the extreme | | | | dog. I am sure I will always have dogs, and I have |
| temperatures. Some dogs require daily grooming. | | | | had both large and small dogs. I happen to prefer |
| Other things to consider: | | | | indoor dogs but my yard is large enough that I |
| Shedding ... Although most breeds do shed there | | | | can provide space for large dogs. |
| are some that do not. If this is an issue do some | | | | Carefully choose your dog and you will be blessed |
| research before making your choice. | | | | with a friend you will enjoy for years to come. |