Shopping For A New Puppy - Part 2 Articles | Dog and Puppies

By: Jeremy C.W

Bringing home a new puppy from the kennel is supposed to be a joyous experience for the entire family, especially for the kids. But when your pup starts to break out into strange temperaments and illnesses that you did not know the animal had, the experience can turn quickly to sadness and despair. This is exactly why you should do some heavy research before choosing your new puppy.

Besides checking for good temperament, ask if the parents of the puppy have any history of inheritable diseases. There are many debilating inheritable diseases common to dogs. Some are quite prevalent, such as hip dysplasia, retinal atrophy, and epilepsy. If the breeder is willing to guarantee that the dog has no inheritable health problems or temperament faults then you can confidently go about choosing your puppy.

Merchandise is usually sold with a guarantee against defects in materials or craftsmanship. There is no reason why a professional breeder shouldn't be willing to provide the same sort of guarantee against poor temperament and inheritable disease.  You might also want to include assurances that the dog will be suitable for the purpose you have purchased him – for example, hunting or herding instinct, or breeding quality for show dogs.

If your dog does develop a condition covered by the agreement, you may find it necessary to destroy the dog and ask for a replacement from the breeder. If you choose to keep the dog in spite of this, the breeder may or may not agree to replace him or refund your money in whole or in part. The terms will be a matter of mutual agreement so be sure to work them out to your satisfaction and have them written out at the bill of sale.

Don't be afraid to ask for a guarantee. If the breeder is a good one then he or she will have no  hesitation about backing up the quality of the animals. If fact, the breeder will probably regard you more favorably for your concern.

If you have to negotiate the purchase of your new puppy by telephone or letter, you will have to rely heavily on impressions. However, remember to inquire about temperament, inheritable diseases, and a written guarantee for both. Ask for the parents, O.F.A. (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) numbers too; this will ensure that the dogs have been x-rayed for hip dysplasia and are registered clear with the O.F.A.

Insist that photos of the sire and the dam be sent to you as well. Everything considered, whether you purchase by telephone or in person, a registered kennel is the best place to go to buy your new puppy.