10 Tips for getting the Dog that you want

Because many households will choose to buy or adopt a new dog for the holidays, it is important to make the best choice for your family. Consider your animal adoption to be as important as welcoming any new member into the family.

Be sure your family is committed to having a dog in the house. An outside-only dog is asking for trouble as the dog doesn’t become a part of the family.

Get a commitment from all family members as to what they want to do with the dog. Who is going to clean the yard? Who is going to walk him? Who is going to groom him? Who will be responsible for his food? Who will pay for his veterinarian visits?

Always neuter or spay your dog, as he or she will be healthier, less aggressive, and incapable of adding to over-population.

Choose a dog that fits with your family. Do you want a high-energy dog that needs lots of aerobic exercise like a Border Collie or do you want a Basset Hound that takes it easy?

Plan to spend time with your new dog even if he isn’t a puppy that you adopt. Don’t adopt a dog and then immediately leave him in the backyard as everyone in the house leaves for work and school. Spend time with training and leaving/returning in short intervals to avoid separation anxiety and unwanted behavior. Make sure he wears a sturdy name/address tag and a license.

Don’t roughhouse play. Avoid tug of war or hand wrestling with your dog. This can lead to aggressive behavior.

Select a dog food that is nutritionally dense, has no by-products or artificial preservatives. It will be healthier for your dog and it will make the yard clean up easier.

Plan to attend dog-training classes or to hire a trainer. It is important to factor in this cost if you are unable or not experienced in dog behavior and dog training. An inexpensive audio collection is offered through an animal welfare center, St. Hubert’s in Madison, NJ. Two audio tapes called, “Dogs will be Dogs” is $15.95. Their website is www.sthuberts.org. You can also get info at www.unclematty.com.

Plan on being the boss. Control access to the couch, his food bowl and his toys. Use simple commands and let your dog earn his treats for sit and stay.

Be patient and enjoy a friend for life. Your diligence in the beginning will create a safe, happy and loving environment that will enrich your life and his.