Lately I have been asked by quite a few people about buying a dog. Overall they wanted to know how I go about 1. looking for one 2. purchasing one 3. extra money needed. So I decided that this would make an interesting post. The questions will be answered in order 1,2,3 while going a little in depth on each. Now we can agree that mostly all puppies are cute, with the occasional ugly what is that puppy, but you must remember that a cute or ugly puppy will quickly develop into a grown dog. Never buy a puppy based on how that puppy looks, look at its parents and grandparents if you can, that will tell you what this dog may turn into.
- When looking for a dog I believe in being patient first; yet so many people are impulse buyers and lack the ability of waiting to see if this is the right breeder, to pick the right pair of dogs, to produce a quality litter, finally deciding to say I’m investing into them. Finding and speaking to a breeder is important but just as important is simply watching and listening to them. We live in a cyber era and many breeders have websites, and social media pages which makes it extremely easy to find one and paying attention to how they care for their animals. These breeders should be happy to speak with you even if you don't overall buy a puppy from them. Being able to clearly describe the breeding pair, why they chose those specific individuals, and what they’re expecting from that breeding. This should also be at the top of your question list. A good breeder will take the time to make sure you are comfortable, answer all question to the best of their ability, and help you have a real understanding of what it takes in order to own a dog bred by them.
- So once you have spent some time carefully deciding on a breeder and a litter, your next step is to clarify to the breeder that you’re interested and there response to you should be you receiving a contract or buyers agreement so you could place a deposit down on a puppy. You should never feel like you are being rushed to sign anything and sending in your deposit but you must remember that most breeders never wait on you to decide, its a first come deal. Just to keep it 100 with you most breeders do require a NON-refundable or transferable deposit, so don't be shocked I’m trying to help you prepare. Now this is where many have there own opinions on what they would spend on a dog but I feel that a quality dog can be bought for about $500 to $1000. Now many dogs range between $1,200 to $6,000 but the price of a dog doesn’t determine the quality of a dog. With the breed that I am in the American Bully, many people have been sold a dream of getting rich quick. Told if you buy this for this amount you can breed it and sell its pups for that amount if not twice that which isn’t true unless you do not care for the animals.
- Now as far as extra money, this is the money needed to immediately care for the dog and incase of an emergency. Taking the dog to a licensed vet for a wellness check within 48 hours of getting the dog is a must. Money for vaccinations and deworming immediately if needed, unless it was just done in front of you before taking the puppy, with accurate documentation, with the dog being up to date for its age and proof being provided by the breeder. Money to provide an adequate diet, grooming supplies, treats, toys, collar, leash, a cage, pee pads, and a few other things.
Now this is just a little of what it takes, but make sure you take your time and don't be in a rush to purchase a dog.
