How do I choose the right companion?
Whether you want to adopt a dog or buy one from a reputable breeder, you’ll want to consider how to choose the right dog breed for your family. Finding the right companion has it perks.
Did you know there are scientifically proven benefits to owning a dog?
Dogs offer great company and they can boost your physical and emotional health.
Having a dog can:
- Help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease
- Protect children from skin conditions and allergies
- Encourage a healthy fitness regime
- Help increase social interactions
- Provide a friendly home alarm system
So, whether you’re looking for your first dog, or you’re planning on expanding the furry lot in your homestead, make sure you don’t rush things. It can mean the difference between a happy coexistence or a frustrated partnership.
There are typically two ways to go about in finding the perfect dog:
- Adoption
- Or buying a puppy from a breeder
Both have their advantages and benefits, so it’s important to consider both options before deciding on one.
Adopting
There are thousands of homeless dogs in New Zealand. Thousands of pups waiting for the chance to find their footing in a safe home with a loving new owner.
Maybe the home is yours? Maybe that owner is you?
If you are thinking about rescuing a dog, there are several organisations that can help you with your adoption, but we know the SPCA to be one of the best.
A tried and true provider, the SPCA has been around since 1824! Originally started in England, the organisation has grown internationally.
Their expert animal staff will help you find the right match for your lifestyle as they want every animal to find the right home. For instance, if you are a super athletic person then they’ll do their best to pair you up with a dog who loves sport! And if you just want a homebody, a breed with minimal walking requirements, they can also point you in the right direction. It’s all about compatibility.
They can also provide you with advice on caring for your new dog and getting them situated comfortably into your home. After adoption, they are more than happy to answer any concerns you may have about settling your new furry family member into your home.
Additionally, the SPCA has a pet shop on site, stocking everything you will need. From essentials such as food, collars and leads, to toys, treats and bedding. Plus all proceeds from the pet shop go into helping and supporting other animals in need. It’s a win-win situation!
If you are thinking about adopting from the SPCA and want to know more about how to do so, please visit the SPCA website here.
Finding the right breeder
If you have your mind set on a bringing home a purebred puppy, the first step is to find the right breed for you. Again, making sure your lifestyle is compatible with the breed you’re interested in is key to a fantastic life together!
Upon deciding on a breed, it’s time to find a breeder who knows what they are doing. A good breeder is careful to breed only healthy dogs with good temperaments. This means that any puppy you get from them has a better chance of turning out to be a great family pet.
A good breeder also knows how to start raising their puppies in a way that prepares them for life as a family dog.
Ask your vet, visit dog shows, or contact local breed clubs to get recommendations for local breeders. And of course ask friends who own dogs!
Think you’ve found a good breeder?
Here are some helpful questions devised by our friends at dogtime.com to ask a breeder.
What’s the right choice?
Whether you choose to adopt or buy a puppy from a breeder, make sure you know what you are getting yourself into. Adding a four four-legged friend to your family or finding your second dog is a big commitment. Taking the time to consider all factors will help with peace of mind in the future.
Do you need help finding out which particular dog breed matches well with your lifestyle? Are you looking for a breeder? Do you want help deciding which adoption organisation to choose? Give give us a bell on 09 448 2227.