Getting a Puppy?

Are you getting a new puppy or dog? Wondering about which breeds to get? 

Well, first, consider the following below

First, I want to state the fact that NOT ALL PUPPIES ARE THE SAME! All animals have distinct individual personalities. 

My last dog was a pekingese, and although it does follow some of the usual characteristics of the breed, it wasn't stubborn or aggressive (which apparently are a few of the breed's characteristics). However, I know that many of my friends (back in China) DO have aggressive pekingese, but in my opinion it all depends on the way you raise them :) 

With that all said, let's begin by differentiating between a puppy and a dog. 

Which one is right for you? 

Golden Labrador Retrievers 

A puppy can be adorable and fun, however it would take a lot of patience in training. Whereas if you are looking for a pet that is fully trained already, a dog would be the right choice to you. 

However, puppies tend to adapt the personalities of their owners. If you want a pet with an already developed personality, a dog is for you. 

SiZe

Think about your living space...a bigger dog would require a lot more space than a toy size dog. (I know...that was obvious.) 

A puppy can grow quite a bit, therefore when choosing a puppy, you can look at their paws in order to see how big they're going to grow into, the bigger the paw, the bigger the dog. 

However, I know many small breed dogs tend to develop the "Small dog syndrome" otherwise known as a napoleon complex. We all know Napoleon Bonaparte, the short French General who compensate for their small size (height, not something else = =) by being overly aggressive. 

Chihuahua

Dogs with small dog syndrome tend to not follow instructions, become very territorial and protective of what they think is theirs (people, toys, food, land) and can even bite with their sharp little teeth. 

Do you have the TIME? 

Time is a BIG issue for most people. People have jobs, they have to socialize with friends and family, and also enjoy their own hobbies. 

You have to ask yourself: "would I have time to keep my pet company?" When you do get a dog/puppy, you must take him on walks AT LEAST ONCE per day! Of course, it is BEST to take your companions out 3 times per day, not long sessions, each walk can be just measly 15 minutes!!! 

You would not want to get a puppy and just leave them hanging by themselves at home with no company. Dogs can develop depression when their owners aren't around. In order to keep your pet happy, you must schedule your life so that you would have at least SOME time for them. 

Possibly mix?

CO$T

Pets can be very pricey! all those vet checks, medical bills, food, toys...etc and the list goes on! Keeping you furry companions happy and healthy would take just a bit more than love and companionship. 

You would have to consider spaying/neutering you pets. This can be 200-300 dollars depending on where you live...etc. Your pet can develop REPRODUCTIVE CANCER and infections if they are not spayed/neutered and is unable to mate. Behavior problems such as territorial marking, aggression and misbehaving will also occur. Spaying/Neutering can also reduce a significant amount of health issues!! 

Depending on the breed that you get, there will be different health issues. For example, one of my favorite breeds, the Maltese, can have sever dental issues if their teeth are not brushed frequently. Also, Siberian Husky can have issues with their sights...etc. 

The cost of their food can vary. Some dog might not eat the store bought, regular dog food. They might be picky about what they eat. Some dogs is willing to eat only high quality food (some that you can get form a vet). 

Adopt me? 

Bichon Frise Cross

Getting a pet? you might considering adoption. There are millions of LOVING pets that are abandoned by irresponsible owners in need of a home. They are just as loving, just as loyal and it's fun to adopt, because you might find a dog that looks like a golden lab, but have the personality of a husky or a dalmatian. 

It is amazing how much you can change an animal's life by taking them in and give them a loving home. These animals deserve love, respect and care just like us humans do. 

I remember my first dog was adopted (when I was still in China). I actually found him on the street, and I remember my Grandma was quite mad that I bought a stray dog home XD hahahaha. I got yelled at, but I kept the dog at the end. I would say Hei Lian (my first dog) was quite lucky. 

In China there are stray pets wondering on the streets every single day. I do not remember any adoption centers for pets (from what I remember), and I remember seeing many strays wondering around in the streets...there are a few that are VERY aggressive... It is sad, and these animals definitely DO deserve better. 

Ha Wen Jin adopts 1,500 dogs and 200 cats!

Chinese Man Adopts 140 Strays!

Bless these good people! ;-;


No matter if you buy from a breeder or adopting from a center, I hope you would keep your fluffy friends happy and enjoy your life more with their companionship :)




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