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Do you vaccinate them before they leave for their new homes?. What kind of socialization do you give your puppies?. What sort of temperament and personalities do the parent dogs have? Temperament is genetic and personality is the result of how that temperament is modified by socialization and the dog’s environment. What did the grandparents die of, and how old were they? Just like people, the best predictors of puppy health are the longevity of parents, grandparents and great-grandparents. Who bred each parent and how can I get in touch with them?. What can you tell me about the health of your dogs’ ancestors?.
May I visit the place where your puppies are bred?. Here are some questions you should ask your prospective breeders. You want to verify the breeding protocols so you will receive a healthy puppy. If you choose not to adopt: How to identify a good breeder and a healthy puppyĪvoid supporting online puppy mills that typically ship a puppy to you. For example, the Helen Woodward Animal Center holiday adoption drive partners with nearly 3,500 animal organizations worldwide to find homes for orphaned pets. Rescues and shelters who already use the Hierarchy of Dog Needs guide help insure your dog has been treated well in their care.Īdopting during the holiday season is especially popular. Research the rescue or shelter and try to find a rescue group or facility that has met not only your dog’s biological needs, but is aware of her emotional, social, and cognitive needs, a rescue who supports “Do No Harm ™”/force-free training methods. Check out Petfinder or the Best Friends Animal Society. Local and breed-specific adoption agencies, shelters, and rescue groups have thousands of good dogs of every breed, size, age, and description who are looking for forever homes. Although puppies are extremely and impossibly cute, a house-trained adult dog may make an easier transition into your home life.
Shelters and rescue groups are great sources to find your forever companion – and what a great feeling you will have when you save a life! Adoptable dogs are already neutered/spayed and have up-to-date vaccinations and microchips. This is an excerpt from Linda’s book, Do No Harm™ Dog Training and Behavior Manual, available to download here.