Puppies: Are You Really Prepared to Raise a Pup?

Recently, a man approached me in the park while I was on my daily walk with one of our German Shepherd's. He asked some questions about my dog and said he would love to have a dog like mine and was thinking about getting a pup. We had a few encounters after that and he'd ask more questions about where he could get one and so on. He seemed like a newbie to it all and so I cautioned him about how GSD's can be one of the most challenging breeds and a puppy by itself is a lot of work, but his enthusiam seemed to overshadow any concern for the level of effort or commitment. I saw him a few weeks later and he said he found a breeder and was traveling to get his GSD, puppy that weekend. He was very excited. A few days later, I see him with his new pup and he was beside himself with love and joy for her. During the encounter, I noticed that for an 8 week old, the puppy was very excited and reactive to me and my puppy and I could tell that he had his work cut out for him. She reminded me of our first GSD puppy who was the most difficult puppy we have ever had, to this day (and ironically, the very dog he fawned over when he and I first met in the park). But, he said she was starting puppy school in a couple days and I figured, with professional guidance and training, they'd be just fine.

Sadly, I ran into him a few days later (he's had the puppy for 4 days at this point), and he said he was re-homing her because he simply couldn't handle it. That he hadn't slept in days and was pulling his hair out with frustration. His list went on... I felt really bad for him and especially the pup.. maybe I could have helped him with her, or swayed him towards a more suitable companion. I felt somewhat responsible, like I could have done something more or provided more guidance. Hence, this bog post..

To be clear, I have absolutely no judgement towards him for rehoming her. I mean, my wife and I, in our earlier puppy ownership days, had certainly considered backing out of a puppy or two. It can be really tough and can test anyone's patience... but ultimately worth it, I believe.

So here we go ... Puppies, they sure are cute, and bringing a puppy into your life can be an exciting and rewarding experience. However, it's important to assess your readiness and consider various factors before making a major commitment such as adopting/purchasing a puppy. The breed of the puppy and your skill level as an owner can also play a significant role in shaping the outcome of raising a pup. In some cases, you'll need to decide whether to get a puppy from a breeder or adopt an older, more mature dog from a rescue. In this blog post, we'll discuss the considerations involved in raising a puppy, explore the pros and cons of breeder vs. rescue options, and provide strategies for making an informed decision. We'll also try to guide you to success with a puppy from a breeder, should you chose that route. My hope is this blog finds the right person at the right time and can help avoid the scenerio in my intro.

Breed Considerations:

Different dog breeds have unique traits, temperaments, exercise needs, and training requirements. Researching and understanding the characteristics of specific breeds is essential to ensure that the puppy's energy level, size, and temperament align with your lifestyle, living arrangements, and experience as a dog owner. Some breeds require more exercise, mental stimulation, or specialized training, so choose a breed that suits your preferences and capabilities.

Owner Skill Level:

Raising a puppy requires time, patience, consistency, and a commitment to training and socialization. Consider your previous experience with dogs and your ability to handle the challenges that come with puppyhood. Also consider the number of people in your household who can contribute or split the workload. Two or three people in a divison of labor makes a big difference. But if you're a first-time dog owner or have limited experience, you may want to opt for a breed that is known for being more adaptable and easier to train.

Here are a few examples of dog breeds that are generally considered adaptable or easier to train, making them suitable for first-time dog owners with limited experience:

(DISCLAIMER: I have personally met 'exceptions' for most of the breeds listed here, so... )

- Labrador Retriever: Labs are friendly, intelligent, and highly trainable. They have a gentle nature and are known for their patience, making them great companions for families and individuals alike.

- Golden Retriever: Similar to Labs, Golden Retrievers are friendly, intelligent, and eager to please. They are known for their gentle temperament, making them excellent family pets and therapy dogs.

- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Cavaliers are affectionate, adaptable, and easy to train. They thrive on human companionship and have a generally friendly and calm demeanor, making them well-suited for various living situations.

- Bichon Frise: Bichons are cheerful, social, and eager to please. They are known for their intelligence and adaptability, making them a great choice for first-time dog owners seeking a small, trainable companion.

- Poodle (Standard, Miniature, or Toy): Poodles are highly intelligent, versatile, and trainable dogs. They come in different sizes and coat varieties, making them suitable for different living arrangements and preferences.

- Shetland Sheepdog: Shelties are intelligent, responsive, and trainable herding dogs. They are known for their loyalty and adaptability, making them a good choice for active individuals or families.