So you've finally decided to get yourself a puppy.
It's so tempting to just pick out the cutest pup in the litter.
Take your time to check the puppies thoroughly to be sure that you will get the perfect one for your household.
The ideal time to get your puppy is after 8 weeks.
Before this, it still needs to be with the mother and siblings for socialization and development.
Here are a few tips to help you choose your puppy:

• First thing for you to do is observe the puppies when you visit them.
  Avoid disturbing them.
  Observe how the puppies act towards each other.
  A playful and active pup is desirable.
  Watch out for the dominant one.
  
• Look for a confident puppy, one which approaches you with its head held high and wagging its tail excitedly.
  
• Visual health check must be done on each puppy.
  They should be round and nice, but certainly not skinny or fat.
  
• Closely look at the rear end, teeth, gums, ears and eyes of the puppies.
  The eyes should be bright and clear, the coat clean and shiny with no sign of debris or any discharge.
  
• Avoid fearful and shy puppies.
  
• When you have determined which puppy you like, conduct a hearing test.
  Try dropping your keys.
  The puppy should be a bit startled or should immediately react.
  Ideally, it will approach the source of the noise to investigate it.
  
• The energy level of your future puppy must be compatible with your lifestyle and your family's.
  
• Pick up the puppy, cradle him and hug him.
  This is also a test to see if it would react by wriggling, squealing and not settling down.
  These are not good signs.
  If it gives a little struggle, this is ok.
  But it must settle down quickly and peer at you with curious eyes.
  
• Conduct a whole body touch on the puppies including the ears, mouth and paws to see their reaction.
  A great pup must not have any problem with this.
  
• A lot of purebred dogs have specific breed ailments.
  Check the family history of the puppies for any signs of these problems.
  No matter how much you like the pup, if there is a family history of inherited diseases you should keep looking for another pup in another location.
  

I wish you luck with your puppy hunting.
Remember that puppies grow up and they will be your companion for many years to come so be sure you keep this in mind when you select the perfect pet.