Mistakes Potential Dog Owners Make

They place pups through word of mouth. When you go to look at a potential pet, you need to ask many questions including: health (and ask for proof of tests done of you are not looking for a rescue); temperament; pros and cons of the breed; why the person is breeding; etc. I had a client who researched the breed her family got. The breed should have suited them well. When she bought the puppy, she went to a person who bred less for companionship and more for hunting ability. The puppy is more than they can handle. She has a very strong work drive and needs to get out and use her talents. The puppy will not be happy being a house pet; she needs a job like tracking.

Failure to realize various commitments.

The best home for a puppy is one where the pup is not home alone all day. Or if you do work full time, you are willing to take plenty of time before work, after work and weekends to go out and do activities with your dog to help burn off excess energy. Also, hire a midday walker for the pup pr send pup to day care. Dogs are close to as much work as a child. You would not leave your five year old home alone without supervision.

The less time spent with a dog, the worse off it is and the greater chance for behavioral issues starting. Dogs are also a lifetime commitment – anywhere from 8 – 15+ years. Dogs require financial commitment. The average dog owner can easily spend $500/year on a dog: food, supplies, medical, training. Then what about emergencies? Can you afford to fix the dog if it is hit by a car and injuries not life threatening but still expensive to repair?

Failure to be consistent (owner is always changing the rules).

This goes with both training and daily life. If Mom and Dad forbid the dog on furniture, but Little Timmy and Janie do, the dog will continue to get on the furniture. He will also become confused as he is being told different things. This leads to stress, anxiety and possibly acting out.

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