Pass by Puppies

Most of my clients wouldn't start with a puppy if they could do it over again. Let's face it: most people really aren't cut out for puppyhood. Of course the lil ones are too cute to resist--but resist we must. It has to be the right time and the right match. Truly, most people don't want to raise a puppy.

How long can it take for a pup to "grow out" of nuisance behavior? Depending on the breed, the circumstances, and the individual puppy: up to two or three years. The average guardian is not ready for that.

Some folks have an idea that they'll know better what they'll get in an adult dog if they start with a puppy. Guess what? Most people miss the crucial socialization period with their puppy anyhow. Unless you get your dog before she is 12 or even 14 weeks of age, you've missed it. That four-month-old at the shelter has likely missed all of what she should have experienced already. And if a pup is adopted before 12 weeks of age, what are the chances her human parents will be qualified to socialize her and expose her properly to good experiences?

Guess how old the majority of dogs are in shelters and rescues. One to two years old! Why? They were cute puppies that their people couldn't handle or got tired of. Poor dogs. Please take a second look at that adult dog instead....