Puppies

What Breed is Right for Me?
Where to Find My Puppy
Choosing the Best Puppy
Veterinary Care for My Puppy

Puppies - What Breed is Right for Me?

Are you thinking about getting a puppy? Congratulations!
There are a number of very important things to consider when choosing a long-term companion pet.

Choosing a puppy that is the right "fit" for me and my family

• This puppy will be a member of your family for many years.
• You want a compatible relationship.
• You want to choose a pup that is as healthy and emotionally stable as possible.
• Additional Resource: Take this Quiz to match a pet and you.
• Read the ASPCA's Meet Your Match.

And consider the following points that will help you choose the right bred for you.

What activities do I want to do with my dog?

• Play in the yard
• Exercise partner
• Couch Companion
• Roommate

How much time am I willing to commit to this dog?

Your dog will need exercise. Here are some ideas:

• Puppy Training. Read about Meadow Hills Veterinary Centers puppy classes
• Obedience classes - offered by Columbia Basin Dog Training Club
• Dog park visits
• Consistent walks or runs
• Agility clubs
• Hunting &/or field trial work
• Canine Good Citizen Classes - offered by the American Kennel Club and the Columbia Basin Dog Training Club
• Canine Community Service - such as pet Hospital & Hospice Therapy, Canine Reading Assistance programs
• Dock Diving - Read more about their events.

What kind of home will my dog have?

• Fenced backyard
• Doggie door access to the house
• Dog kennel area
• Apartment with dog walker
• Doggie Day Care

What is my budget for:

• Nutrition. This has a phenomenal impact on your pet’s health Learn why at Hillspet.
• Veterinary care - Learn more about accredited veterinarians
• Supplies - leashes, toys, collars, food bowls, beds, grooming supplies
• Grooming
• Boarding - MHVC offers boarding. Read more.

Are there puppy related health concerns or risks for family members?

Read this Companion Animal Parasite Council brochure to learn how to reduce parasitic infection in your pet household.

Mutt or purebred

Even if you want a mixed breed puppy you will benefit from learning the characteristics of the predominant breeds in the mutts you are interested in – looks can be deceiving! Do NOT choose a puppy based on looks! Genetics greatly influence energy levels, displays of affection and need for affection, trainability, digging, barking, herding, and other personality and behavioral characteristics.

Review dog bred characteristics and photos in our Education Library. Select Dog Breeds under Categories.

It is a myth that mixed breed dogs are healthier than purebred dogs. A mixed breed dog receives the health genetics from both its parents in the same way a purebred dogs does. There can be an advantage in knowing what problems the parents and other relatives of the puppy have had.