Puppies

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

Where to Find My Puppy

Homeless pet adoption organizations, local and national

There are literally millions of homeless dogs and cats in our country today – Yours could be their "forever" home! Some have been traumatized. Some have simply been irretrievably lost. Others have been separated from their homes due to death or inability of their families to support them. Here are some local resources:

Breeder

Responsible breeders work hard to select for the healthiest and best personalities in their breed. They know the characteristics and needs of their type of dog and are eager to educate you. They use many resources to screen their dogs for a multitude of health problems beyond hip and elbow dysplasia. Many screen for retinal problems (with an ophthalmologist), heart abnormalities (with cardiac ultrasounds), genetic blood disorders such as Von Willebrand’s Disease. Spend an afternoon at a dog show to look at different breeds and talk to their breeders. The dog shows demonstrate a bred's trainability and desire to have a relationship with people.

Breed rescue organizations & Senior Pet Adoption organizations

These are amazing places that narrow your search and are a wonderful resource of information about dogs needing homes. Do an Internet search on the name of the breed plus the words "rescue organizations."

Neighborhood breeder/ friend with a litter of puppies

You often have the advantage of knowing both parents of the puppy you are considering. The homelike environment of this source is often family centered, calm, safe and clean. A disadvantage might be that the parents of this puppy have not been rigorously screened for potential health or personality problems.