How to choose a puppy from a litter

calendar 20.04.2024

There are never enough puppies! But the decision to bring a new four-legged friend into the house requires a responsible attitude. Even though the puppy is young, we can already see signs of its personality and its future character, which are worth considering when choosing a dog. A lazy puppy or a loner will find it harder to adapt in an active, hands-on family. The reverse is also true. And the health of the dog is also important. Simply put, several variables play a role in selecting a puppy. Let's look at the key criteria for choosing the right puppy for your family.

How should I choose a dog?
How to choose a puppy from a litter

Choose according to how active you are

When choosing a new family member, it is good to find harmony between the personality of the dog and the lifestyle of the rest of the pack. For a quiet household where you enjoy peace and comfort, a calm dog that does not require 15 kilometers of daily exercise will be ideal. On the other hand, imagine a family where dad runs regularly, kids play active sports, mom does yoga and everyone goes on cycling adventures together. It’s advisable for this family to consider dogs that share their interest in exercise. They should choose a dog that is able to keep up with them and that really enjoys the activity.

 

Just as important is the dog’s character. For example, if you do not have 3 hours each day to train your dog, it is advisable to look for a breed and a particular puppy with a milder temperament. Choose a dog that is not too stubborn or demanding to train. This gives you a pleasant life companion while maintaining a balance between the dog's needs and the family's lifestyle.

Health and genetic check-up

Before you bring your dog home, you need to have its health checked. Make sure it has all the necessary vaccinations, is dewormed and has been examined by a vet. An important document, besides the purchase contract, is the European pet passport (blue booklet with stars), which serves as a vaccination certificate. It is also a kind of "travel document" for our furry friends. Vaccinations are crucial for disease prevention, so it is important that puppies receive all the necessary doses. All our available puppies are properly vaccinated, dewormed and have pet passports.

Pay attention to its physical condition. The puppy should not have any visible problems, such as a hernia, dewclaws, overbite or underbite or kink in the tail. These details can affect not only the health, but also the comfort and quality of life of a new family member. A safe and happy start to a new life with you begins with a healthy puppy.


Social adaptation to the rest of the pack

If possible, arrange to visit the puppy with your children or a dog member of your family. These meetings will help you gauge the social skills of a future member of your household. How does the puppy react to children? What are its interactions like with your other dog? These moments can give you an idea of what cohabitation will be like in the years to come. You will see for yourself how the puppy behaves. This may help you decide between two candidates. 

 

Choosing a puppy begins your life's adventure, so listen to your gut feeling and choose a dog you feel you can bond with. Then all you have to do is check its health and documentation and you're all set. Fun and responsibility are both beginning, so enjoy them to the fullest. 

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