Don't Blame the Dog, Blame the Owner...

Chosing a Breeder that Breeds Properly Raised, Healthy Puppies

Once you have decided that you are ready for a puppy, you need to decide upon a source. There are many options available, and breeders are not the only choice.

Unfortunately today, there are all too many dogs in rescue centers, adoption facilities, pounds, kill centers, and shelters. If you have your heart set on a certain breed or type of dog, you may have a chance of finding one in a local shelter. I know a woman who has rescued two chihuahuas over a 10 year period from a shelter in her area. The adoption fees are generally much less than the "price" of a puppy through any breeder.

If you decide that a breeder is the choice for you, begin doing some research on breeders in your local area. It is not recommended to find breeders in distant areas, because you cannot see the puppies, the living conditions of the dogs, you cannot meet the breeders and see the interaction they have with the puppies, and there could be unforeseen issues, health concerns, or other problems. It is always best to visit the breeder on-site. If they won't allow this, there may be an issue. Likewise, expect that a breeder may wish to see the future living conditions of the placement homes.

The puppies' parents are good indicators of the possible temperament of the puppy you choose. Of course each puppy will have an individual personality, but if the parents are unhealthy or have aggression or depression issues, the breeder is may not have high standards of care. Look for a breeder who shares interaction with all of the dogs, not just the puppies. Puppies should not be overly timid or afraid, should display curiosity, playful behavior, a healthy coat, clean, clear eyes and ears, and a healthy appetite.

Preventing Fear and Aggression in Small Dogs

Small dogs often suffer the consequences of a bad reputation – some people lovingly refer to it as “Little Dog Syndrome”. While it is not necessarily a personality trait found in nature, it is a type of aggression that stems from the upbringing of the dog. Similar behavior originates in nature for different reasons, and they are usually not met with the same results as we see in the domesticated canine world.

The behavior can range from aggression to fearful and antisocial, and can be triggered by a wide variety of situations, which can prove to be very stressful for the dog and the family he or she lives with. For some dogs, it is caused by factors that are present in the home.

When your pup is young, be sure not to caudle the dog, or prevent your dog from experiencing the surprises that life brings us. Many small dog owners unwittingly create fear in their dogs by picking them up when larger dogs or when other dogs are perceived as a threat by the owner. However, if you allow your dog to explore new situations in a calm manner, most dogs will naturally be more comfortable in new situations in the future.

Don’t be afraid to expose your pup to many people and many other dogs, enabling your dog to adapt a sense of comfort and ease. You and your dog will be much more relaxed in the future – and that’s something to look forward to!

Choosing a Breed that's Right for You

Before you go out and adopt the first dog you see, or buy that cute little puppy, you just might want to research breeds a little bit, especially if you don't know anything about your "favorite" breed. Many people choose a pet based on the "cuteness factor". This can lead to all sorts of personality conflicts, as well as behavior and training difficulties. Some breeds aim to please, however, others can be very stubborn, and much more work is involved when trying to change undesirable behavior.

Your first decision should be whether or not you wish to go through puppy potty-training, which can test the patience of even the most forgiving human! If that is not for you, consider adopting an adolescent or adult dog, and be sure to ask all of the right questions. If you have pet peeves, you should make a list of them and ask about all of them, this involves "choosing" a member of the family, so choose wisely.

Be mindful of the personality traits that are common to certain breeds, and match that with your personality and habits. If you are an active person, who enjoys walking (a lot), then you may do well with a working breed. However, if you lack the gumption to get outside and get a little exercise, you'll definitely want to look for a less active breed. All dogs should be walked daily, or least several times a week. But some breeds will tear your apart the house, your things, or the garbage, and even could display other negative or aggressive behavior if you don't give him enough exercise. Some breeds are particular to certain types of weather, and can become sick in weather that's too hot or too cold. Others don't like water, and refuse to potty in the rain. Some breeds are extremely stubborn and hard to train, others display a desire to do anything you wish. These may sound like simple personality quirks, but some quirks are more prevalent in certain breeds than in others.