Photo by Lauren Trebbin
Before you buy a puppy...
Getting a pet is not a decision to be taken lightly. Ask yourself the following questions (and be honest with yourself!) before you do anything else:
CHOOSE THE PET THAT BEST SUITS YOUR LIFESTYLE AND YOUR HOME(even if it's NOT a Dobermann!)
Consider the following before deciding:
SIZE: A large Dobermann is not a good idea if you live in a small town house or flat filled with knick-knacks.
COAT: Perhaps you are allergic to dog hair? There are some breeds who do not lose their hair at all and are clipped instead on a regular basis.
WHY PURE-BRED: The advantage of a pure-bred is that they are bred to meet certain standards of size and temperament. Be sure that you choose a reputable breeder.
WHAT BREED IS BEST: By familiarising yourself with your breed, you will avoid any surprises. Be sure to research your particular breed in advance. Different breeds have their own characteristics and temperament.
SHOP AROUND: Shop around at different breeders before deciding on a puppy and try to resist the first pair of appealing brown eyes. The condition of the dogs in the kennel and the kennel itself will be an indication of the quality of the breeder. Buying a puppy is a very risky business these days. Phone as may breeders as possible; make use of the internet, magazines, your local Veterinarian and KUSA breeders information department.
Under no circumstances should you EVER buy from a pet shop. Not even because you feel sorry for the animals.
- Who will feed and walk Puppy every day?
- Do you have the time and desire to train a dog?
- Can you afford the cost of food and vet bills?
- What happens to Puppy when you go on holiday?
- Can your home accommodate a pet?
- Are you prepared for an 8-10 year commitment?
- What are your needs and is the Dobermann the right breed?
- Have you had a Dobermann before (a Dobermann is like a busy child for the rest of its life!)?
- Do you have another dog or pets?
- Do you have the commitment required to dedicate to your new puppy or dog?
- Have you done a thorough study of the breed? Health, temperament and conformation etc.
CHOOSE THE PET THAT BEST SUITS YOUR LIFESTYLE AND YOUR HOME(even if it's NOT a Dobermann!)
Consider the following before deciding:
SIZE: A large Dobermann is not a good idea if you live in a small town house or flat filled with knick-knacks.
COAT: Perhaps you are allergic to dog hair? There are some breeds who do not lose their hair at all and are clipped instead on a regular basis.
WHY PURE-BRED: The advantage of a pure-bred is that they are bred to meet certain standards of size and temperament. Be sure that you choose a reputable breeder.
WHAT BREED IS BEST: By familiarising yourself with your breed, you will avoid any surprises. Be sure to research your particular breed in advance. Different breeds have their own characteristics and temperament.
SHOP AROUND: Shop around at different breeders before deciding on a puppy and try to resist the first pair of appealing brown eyes. The condition of the dogs in the kennel and the kennel itself will be an indication of the quality of the breeder. Buying a puppy is a very risky business these days. Phone as may breeders as possible; make use of the internet, magazines, your local Veterinarian and KUSA breeders information department.
Under no circumstances should you EVER buy from a pet shop. Not even because you feel sorry for the animals.