THE RIGHT DOG
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German Shepherds are great for protection and loyalty, where as Terriers are great with children and apartment life. It can be quite argues searching for the ultimate "Lassie", or "Rin Tin Tin".
PURE BREEDS VS. MUTTS
The all-important question: pure breed or mutt? Chances are you are looking for a pet and not an award winning show dog. Mutts or mixed-breeds tend to be healthier because of their genetic mixing. While, mixed breeds are healthier they are harder to train. And with a pure breed, a shepherd pup will look like a shepherd dog. But by buying or adopting mixed breeds or pound puppies, you will definitely be making a contribution towards reducing pet overpopulation and most likely be saving a dog's life.
It can get a little confusing. If you have mind made up and heart set on pure breed. This will help find a reputable breeder you can trust. Even the signed papers stating the animals breed are not always accurate.
Most pure bred dogs are raised on puppy mills where they are bred and sold, just like horses. Sounds normal, but these mills will breed many types of dogs in one mill. For instance a puppy mill in Missouri breeds; Cocker Spaniel; Shar-pei;
Dachshund; and Kitas in one mill.
Despite the efforts of the AKC, these mills are run very loosely and there are many situations were these dogs will interbred with each other. Now, that may not seem like a big deal, but if your are going to pay 500 dollars or more you probably want what your paying for, right?
Here are five questions you can ask your breeder:
1. Where did these puppies come from? Ask to see the documents, an AKC or United Kennel Club guarantees nothing about the dog, but will tell you that the kennel has not lost its registration privileges.
2. Can I get a copy of the breeder's certification of health, including x-rays of hips for dysplasia and inspection of eyes for disease?
3. What are the health risks common to this breed?
4. What is the breed's temperament?
5. How much exercise will this dog need? How much grooming? Is he by nature a barker?
It can be difficult to shop for a car. Most Americans want them affordable, gas efficient, yet big and sporty. There are hundreds of models of cars to choose from. Given the money, you can spend some time shopping for the "perfect car". Well, that's just a car. It can be quite difficult to sh. . .