What to Avoid When Choosing a Puppy

Matt Matasci Matt Matasci · Updated August 28, 2024

Ensure Your Furry Friend's Comfort!

  • Fast and easy
  • Only pay when you book
A woman with long hair pats the paw of a small white dog, ensuring her puppy selection is perfect.

When you plan to bring home a new dog, it’s an incredible time of transition for your family. But, it can become an arduous task if you’re seeking to buy a puppy or toy breed pup online. In our post today, we’re going to explain a couple of common mistakes people make while purchasing a puppy and how to avoid them. These mistakes are irrespective of whether you’re in search of a Teacup Bichpoo, Miniature Goldendoodle, Miniature Labradoodle, Maltipoo, or Mini Aussiedoodle. Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid when choosing a puppy.

Mistakes to Avoid To Make the Best Decision

First of all, we must emphasize that any decision regarding the breed of puppy should be the result of careful consideration. A puppy is a companion that will be with you for years; selecting them thoughtfully can have a positive impact on your family and the dog. However, there are factors to put into consideration before adopting in order to avoid the pitfalls and increase the likelihood of a successful adoption.

Rushing Decisions or Ignoring Breed Research

One of the most common blunders that individuals seeking to adopt a puppy make is impulse buying. While it’s always exciting to be captivated by the first puppy that catches the eye, it’s wise to spend some time looking for information and doing some planning. 

Every dog breed has different traits related to temperament, energy levels and health problems. Lack of research on breeds leads to disappointment because you may find that you weren’t properly prepared. For example, once you know about Mini Aussiedoodle facts, you’ll find that these dogs are very energetic, require a lot of exercise and may not be appropriate for people who don’t have an active lifestyle.

Overlooking Health and Genetic Testing

Stay away from breeders who still need updated health certificates and genetic testing done on the puppies before selling. Responsible breeders will screen for hereditary diseases and give a probable health report to ensure the health of the puppy. Puppies whose parents are untested may be born with actual health problems that could later cause emotional and financial shock. 

It’s also important to view the breeder’s premises to establish the environment in which the puppies were raised. Avoid breeders who resist letting potential buyers see the animals. It is advisable to occasionally observe the whole environment and interact with the puppy’s parents so as to gauge the puppy’s future behavior and health.

Choosing Based on Appearance Alone

As much as people tend to want to adopt the most adorable puppy in the litter, the decision shouldn’t be based solely on the puppy’s appearance. Think about temperament, personality and overall compatibility of a pup with the rest of your family members and your everyday routine. This means that a calm, friendly, temperamental puppy might be more suitable than an adorable but ‘hyper’ one.

Ignoring Socialization & Not Asking Questions

This is a natural progression of the previous statement because a well-socialized puppy means a well-adjusted adult dog. Stay away from wholesale breeders who do not give their puppies a chance to experience various situations and interactions. Puppies need early socialization to properly grow up and be well-behaved, and you need to ensure that they have one. 

To make the right choice, the questions you should ask the breeder or the staff of the shelter are submitted in the article. Breeders who don’t answer your questions clearly or are hesitant to give you an answer should be avoided. Ask about:

  • The health status of the puppy
  • The vaccinations that it has already received
  • The puppies diet
  • If any behavioral problems are observed. 

Always choose the reputed breeders who are willing to share information about the breed’s lineage.

Failing to Consider Long-Term Costs

Puppies rely on a constant supply of resources throughout their lives. Therefore, you need to be willing to spend money on it for years. Don’t underestimate the indirect costs that come with having a dog:

  • Dog food
  • Grooming
  • Vet visits
  • Training
  • Kennel
  • Toys

Make sure you are financially equipped to meet those obligations. Bringing a puppy home means it will need your time, energy and commitment. When selecting a puppy, don’t bite off more than you can chew. Reflect on your schedule during the day, how mobile you are, and whether you can devote time to a new puppy.

Falling for Scams

At the moment, there are many different puppy scams that people fall victim to. To avoid them, only buy a puppy after ensuring the source of the puppy is reputable. Always avoid a seller who demands a down payment before they supply necessary documents or one who is ready to ship the puppy to you no-questions-asked. Also be careful when having the puppy transported to your home; only choose a reputable pet transportation service.

Neglecting to Prepare Your Home & Training

Don’t bring home a puppy or acquire a puppy without puppy-proofing the house. Have food, a crate and toys; eliminate danger inside the home, secure your yard and adapt it to your dog. Training is one of the most significant tasks to undertake when you adopt a puppy. Have a plan for training and socializing your new puppy — take it to obedience school, seek advice from a professional trainer, and spend time training the puppy to follow instructions and have good manners.

Conclusion

It’s essential to find the ideal furry friend from a reputed breeder. These breeders have healthier and well-socialized pups prepared to join your companionship. Whenever you are planning to adopt your choice of puppy from professional breeders, avoid these common errors so you’re happy with your choice.