Advice on Selecting a Puppy

Dogs make wonderful companions and friends. They can add a great deal of love and joy to your family and home. However, some breeds may be a better match for your lifestyle and family than others. Before you begin your search for a canine companion, it's important that you first do your homework on the breeds that you're interested in and that you learn about the responsibilities associated with dog ownership.

Many people assume that puppies or kittens are the only age for a new pet to be introduced into the family when, in fact, an older pet is often more suitable in many situations. There are important differences between the needs and abilities of adult dogs or cats vs. puppies or kittens.

The first six months of life are vital to the development of puppies and kittens and require a lot of time, care and energy. Many households are not able to provide what is needed during this busy period of high-rate learning and growth. Young pets that are not properly taught and cared for during this time may not develop the proper social kills.

Read more Advice on Selecting a Puppy.