Puppy or Rescue?

This is the first in a series of blogs all about being a first time dog owner ...

When you decide to bring a dog into the family it is very exciting. Especially if its the first time you have ever had a dog, it is really easy to be impulsive and go out and get the first puppy that you see but getting a dog is a huge decision and one which takes planning and preparation.

Throughout this series we will bring you information on lots of aspects of getting a dog, from choosing through to bringing him / her home, training, feeding ....

The first decision you have to make is whether to get a puppy or a rescue?

We have done both and I wouldn't change a thing about that, I love all three of mine and each one is very special to me, we welcomed 2 in as puppies and 1 as a rescue.

When we welcome more dogs into the family however I would only ever rescue, having a rescue dog is so special, the love they give you is amazing and the opportunity to give a dog a second chance just feels right.

Many people think rescue dogs are going to come with a whole host of problems whether physical or behavioural but the majority of dogs in rescues are normal, healthy dogs who have no home. They will come into your home, love you unconditionally and settle into their role as loved family pet.

There are some dogs out there who through abuse and neglect do have problems but if you are working with a good rescue then they will have assessed that dog and already started woring with it, they will be looking for the right home based on what that dog needs. They will discuss this with you, ensure you can give the dog what it needs and support you if you do take a dog like this.

Remember, if you get a dog with a problem that with hard work, stability and love that dog can learn new ways and change.

So. here are some things to think about when opening your heart to a rescue:

• Do your research first, think about what kind of breeds and size of dog will suit your family - its easy to fall in love with the wrong dog!
• Once you know what breed(s) you are interested in then go to rescues and look for that breed or similar
• Consider what age range you want - rescues often have puppies but there are also some wonderful older dogs who make wonderful pets and are often overlooked
• Good rescues will back you up, that means they will be there for advice, support and guidance throughout the dogs life if you need it
• Never feel sorry for a dog no matter what has happened, this is the start of a new life so focus on giving your dog the very best in care, training and love - your dog doesn't dwell on the past!
• Go and visit the dog and take all members of the household. Go for a walk, get to know the dog before making a decision and don't feel guilty if you meet a dog and its not for you. The best thing you can do is find the right dog for you, the rescue will find the right home for all the others.

In our next post we will look at picking the right breed of dog for you, what to consider and what to look for. In future posts we will also be looking at specific breeds such as The Staffordshire Bull Terrier as well as what to consider when rescuing a giant breed and an older dog.