Preparing
Now you have chosen the type of dog that you feel you can get along with, what is the next stage?
You want to get a pet that will fit in with you and your family. It can be a pure bred puppy from a breeder or it can be a cross-bred from a friend. To help you choose, it is better to have a good idea of what you will get. It is better to see the puppy with the mother, or if possible both parents, to give a good idea about the final size of the dog. You'll know then whether the puppy comes from a good home and what the dog's personality is likely to be. A healthy pup will also be inquisitive, alert and playful with a glossy coat. Remember, it is better to wait for the ideal canine partner rather than to choose impulsively, so you may have to save up or be on a waiting list for an expensive pure bred dog.
One way that everyone in the family can get involved is in choosing the new pup's name. Remember, you may be calling this out across a park in the future, so choose one that everyone feels comfortable with, and which suits the dog.
Arrival
The best time to take on a new puppy is when you have time and there is not too much going on in the household. This is one of the factors why Christmas is not a good time to get a new dog. Two weeks of care and attention initially will pay off in the end. If you have older school-aged children, the school holidays are a good time to get that new family member. If possible, the primary 'carer' should be with the puppy for the next couple of weeks.
Make sure that you have got everything ready for the big day. Buy all of the equipment you need, and register your pup with a vet. Make sure that the day of arrival is as 'normal' as possible - the puppy is going to be scared and confused, so lots of people around making a fuss will only add to the distress. Make sure you have all of the things you would need for the new dog to make them feel as loved as possible. Remember, they are going to feel anxious and overwhelmed, so give them space and don't worry too much if there are 'accidents'!
