How to Select Puppy First Time –A big challenge

A pet will teach you unconditional love

Taking home your first puppy is always exciting and enjoyable. It is a big step and selecting the right one involves considering several key factors to ensure a good match for your lifestyle and the puppy’s needs. Here are the important features to look –

1. What is the need-This is the first and very important question arise in mind while taking a puppy first time. We have to clearly justify our need and purpose.eg. For safety, enjoy or as a companion for family. This need should be clear.
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2. Check space at home-Find breeds to match your lifestyle. Whether the space inside/outside your home is sufficient according to your lovely pet or not. Large size breeds needs more space for their better growth as comparison to small size breeds.
3. Temperament: Always look for a puppy that’s shows friendly behaviour, curious, and confident but not overly aggressive or excessively shy. Observe how the puppy interacts with you, its littermates, and new stimuli. A balanced temperament suits first-time owners.
4. Check energy levels, size, and behaviour. For example, low-energy breeds like Bulldogs suit apartment dwellers, while active breeds like Labradors fit those with yards and active routines.
5. Breed Suitability/Size: Small (Pug, Chihuahua, Pomeranian), Medium (Beagle, Bulldog), or Large (Labrador, German Shepherd).
6. Health and Veterinary Records: Ensure the puppy has a sound health, with up-to-date vaccinations, deworming, and a regular health checkup.  Ask for health certificates and records to avoid future medical surprises.
7. Basic grooming Needs: Some breeds require minimal grooming (e.g., Beagles), while others (e.g., Poodles) need regular brushing or professional grooming. Choose based on your time and budget for maintenance.
8. Trainability: First-time owners benefit from breeds known for being easy to train, like Golden Retrievers or Border Collies. Intelligent, eager-to-please puppies make training smoother.
9. Activity/Energy Level: Match the puppy’s energy to your activity level. Mostly High-energy breeds (e.g., German Shepherds/Rottweilers ) need lots of exercise, while lower-energy breeds (e.g., Shih Tzus/Pug) are content with shorter walks.
10. Registered Breeder or Source: Buy from a registered/trusted breeder. Trusted breeders prioritize health, temperament, and socialization, and provide transparency about the puppy’s background.
11. Socialization Exposure: In early age Puppies exposed to various people, sounds, and environment are more likely to be well-adjusted. Get information about the puppy’s early socialization experiences.
12. Observe parental Health and Background: try to observe the health and temperament of the puppy’s parents, as these influence the puppy’s future traits. Reputable breeders often provide parent health screenings.
13. Additional Tips: Observe the Litter, Spend time watching the litter to see which puppy’s personality matches with your preferences (e.g., playful, calm, or independent).Inquire about the puppy’s diet, daily routine, and any early training to ensure a smooth transition.
14. After that do some preparation at your home: Before bringing the puppy home, ensure you have basic essentials like a crate, food, toys, and a vet lined up. By prioritizing these features, you’ll be better equipped to choose a puppy that fits your life and set the stage for a happy, healthy relationship.
15.                                                    SOME HIGHLIGHTED FEATURES
    

    S.no	Don’t   X	TO DO
    1	Never   buy a puppy just because it’s “cute” without knowing the breed.	Check  temperament, size, and energy level to match your lifestyle
    2	Avoid buying from pet stores, roadside sellers, or online ads.	Should Visit registered/reputable breeders
    3	Avoid taking a puppy without vet records (vaccinations, deworming etc.)	Avoid* puppies with any discharge from eyes/nose and other natural openings. – Lethargy or excessive scratching (sign of parasites) – Bloated belly (could mean worms
    4	Never  take a puppy less than 30days age(minimum)—they need mother’s milk & socialization	Ideal age:  6–12 weeks
    5	Avoid buying if the seller won’t let you see the *mother dog*.	Physically fit ,healthy and well-behaved mother means better puppy
    6	Never* buy without a health guarantee, return policy.	Registered/Reputable breeders provide this.
    7	Sometime too cheap it may be  a scam or sick puppy	Too much expensive without papers?* Could be a fraud.
    8	Don’t* pick a puppy that shows unusual behaviour like Hides constantly (may be fearful) Or Snaps/growls aggressively .	Select  a physically fit, confident, curious puppy
    9	Avoid Not Asking About Diet & Routine* Sudden food changes cause diarrhoea.	Get information what the puppy eats and *stick to it* initially.
    10	Avoid giving any medicines by self. Skipping early vet checks risks hidden illnesses	Schedule a routine vet visit regularly /when needed
    11	Never ask a friend/relative to do this work	Involve yourself with your intention while choosing a puppy