Selecting a Puppy

Who doesn't love a puppy? They're so sweet and cuddly and they have that little "puppy smell". Okay, so they're all cute, they're all looking up at you with those big puppy eyes "pick me" but you can't take all of them home with you (as tempting as it may be). You have to choose one. Select your new family member with your lifestyle and living situation in mind. In addition to personality consider temperatment, size, and coat. Some breeds have traits that may be objectionable in certain circumstances, such as hyperexcitability or a tendency to bark. Your veterinarian is a valuable resource to be consulted.

Healthy puppies should be happy and playful. They might nibble at your shoes or scamper toward you. Cluck your tongue and jingle your car keys and watch how the puppies react. Don't select the shyest puppy. Shy puppies almost always grow up to be shy adults. Don't select the boldest puppy either. A middle- of-the-road puppy almost always makes the best pet. Inspect the puppy's coat and its eyes, ears, dewclaws, and tail. Healthy puppies shouldn't cough, sneeze, or wheeze.

Coat should be even and soft with no bald spots and free of red patches. Check for fleas.
Eyes should be clear and not runny.
Ears should be clean inside.