How Do I Pick The Right Puppy?
I'm assuming you're a rookie at this and are looking strictly for a nice pet.
These are only guidelines; taking a more experienced person with you is a good option.
Let's start with what puppy NOT to pick. NEVER take a sick puppy. A good breeder would never sell you one anyway, so right away you know that one who would doesn't care about you, the puppy or the financial and emotional investment you make.
DON'T take a puppy that growls at you. That DOES NOT mean they will make better watchdogs! The growling is either dominance or fear induced, neither of which is easy or acceptable to live with. These are the dogs that bite for all the wrong reasons.
Don't take the puppy that cringes from your touch, won't come come to you or avoids involvement with the rest of the litter and/or owner. If the whole litter is like that, GO SOMEWHERE ELSE.
There are many good puppies out there, be patient. You may pay more for a correctly bred and socialized pup, but it will be cheaper than paying for behavioral and health problems later on.
The pup you pick should not be afraid to climb on you, should try to lick or kiss you (not bite!) and be willing to follow you around.
When you pick her up she may struggle but should soon settle down and try to kiss or paw you. A pup who bites and/or violently struggles, who freezes and/or avoids eye contact is unsuitable as a pet.
Avoid pups who run away from loud noises and won't come back to investigate. Toss a piece of paper or ball; a puppy who brings it back to you will be a joy to train.
Pick your pup at 7 wks., the optimum time most experts feel truly indicates what the mature dog will be like.
Of course meet the parents, the puppy cannot be anything other than the genetics dealt to him, modified and enhanced ( for good or bad ) by the environment and socializing given to him by the breeder and then you.
After all this......? Pick the GOOD puppy that LIKES YOU BEST!!!
