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Category: Animals & Pets : Dogs
So where do you go to find that dream dog? Here are the places that most people consider, and some comments on whether or not they are good places to look for a quality dog.
The Pet Store
This one is easy. Don't. Never. No. Not under any circumstances.
Why? Because pet stores have a dirty little secret they would rather you didn't know. Those cute puppies are raised in abysmal conditions, and every time you buy one, you support an industry that dooms thousands of breeder dogs to lives of suffering. Pet store puppies are raised like livestock in tiny cages. For details, check out http://www.nopuppymills.com.
Besides the horrors of the puppy mill, there are good practical reasons not to buy a puppy from a pet store:
- You'll pay more than you will for a healthy, well-adjusted puppy from a reputable breeder
- You'll get a puppy that is not carefully bred and is likely to have a genetic defect like hip dysplasia or epilepsy
- You'll get a puppy that hasn't been carefully socialized and may turn out to have behavior problems
- Due to careless breeding, your puppy may not grow up to look or act anything like its breed
- Because pet store puppies have to poop and pee in their cages, they are very difficult to housebreak
- You will not have the support of a caring and knowledgeable breeder to help you if you have problems with the puppy
The Animal Shelter or Pound
A great choice if you want to save a life! You'll see plenty of dogs that need homes. The downside is that you'll have little, if any, background on the dog's health and socialization. If you can handle that, a pound is a good choice.
Breed Rescue Groups
Want a specific breed? In most locations, rescue groups exist for many breeds, and can match you with a dog that will suit your needs. Keep in mind that you usually will not be able to get a puppy. Most rescue dogs will be several years old, but will still have many good years in front of them. And good rescues will evaluate the dogs and will be able to tell you quite a bit about them. If you are interested in rescue for a specific breed, check out http://www.akc.org for the breed club you are interested in, and contact them for further information.
The Newspaper (or Magazine Ad, etc.)
For a puppy- maybe- maybe not. Some good breeders do advertise in the newspaper, but most don't. Check out the article on reputable breeders for some help here. If you are looking for an adult dog, you may find a lovely pet that someone is trying to place. Interview them carefully!
A Breeder
There are all kinds of breeders. Most do it for all the wrong reasons- money, getting a pup "just like old Rover", "for the kids". Don't patronize these people! Responsible breeders, on the other hand, deserve support. For how to tell the difference, see my article on reputable breeders.
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How to Train a Dog: Sit
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How to Train a Dog: Housebreaking
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Choosing a Dog... How To Find a Reputable Breeder
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Choosing a Dog... Indoor or Outdoor?
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