Unfortunately dogs don't come from their mothers at 8-12 weeks with the knowledge of how to care for themselves.
They come to you only having been born and given "milk" that protects them from disease for a short period.
Once you take the puppy home the burden to teach him/her what they need to know to continue to survive will come from you.
They will never be on their own to take total care of themselves.
You will have to feed them daily, show them where to eliminate and teach them the commands that will help to keep them safe.
The balls in your court.
It is important that you realize the responsibility you're taking on.
The first 6-8 months of having a puppy can be a difficult time.
You will spend hours teaching your dog to go to the bathroom outside and teaching your puppy to learn its name and to come when called.
Even with dogs that are described as intelligent dogs and easy to train these things can take time.
If you can survive these trying times and things that will challenge your ability to be patient you and your dog will have a strong bond.
There are certain things to look for when deciding on a dog breed.
If it's your first or second dog if you're considering a certain breed you need to find accurate information about the breed you may be considering.
Read about breeds that interest you and see if the descriptions fit what you want from a dog.
Choose a breed that compliments you and your personality and lifestyle.
If you have children it may be important to choose a dog that is described as "good" with children.
Take your child's age into consideration.
Are they toddlers, if so they can easily be knocked down by a large dog, a dog with a big wagging tail or a boisterous puppy.
Are they teenagers too busy with school and after school activities to help with the responsibility? In the early beginning they will pledge to help with feeding, walking and training the puppy or dog, but before long those other things become more important.
This happens primarily because the puppy doesn't learn things as quickly as everyone expects.
Now its taking too much time and cleaning up the yard where the dog eliminates is a hassle, they don't have the time nor do they want to take the time to take the puppy for a walk.
Are you looking for a small dog, such as a Shih Tzu,Poodle, or Yorkie? Or perhaps you're looking for a Bulldog, a Cocker Spaniel, or a Briard? No? Maybe a Basset Hound is more your type? Answer these questions before deciding: * Would you prefer a dog that is independent and can be left alone? * Do you want a dog that is active, easy going, quiet or playful? * Will the dog fit in into your lifestyle? * Would you prefer a short haired or long-haired dog? * Are you interested in a breeder with "show dogs"? * Do you have a soft spot in your heart for a mutt? * Are you looking for a dog to guard your home? *Can you afford to pay for vet care if the dog gets sick or injured? * Are you looking for a large or small dog? * Can you afford to feed a large breed dog.
*There are costs when getting a dog can you afford them? (collar, vaccinations,, leash, tags, microchip, bowls, grooming, dog beds, food, adoption costs, toys etc) It's important to ask yourself these questions and more so that the puppy or dog does not get returned to the breeder, given to family members, friends or to a shelter because you don't have the time or patience to deal with the dogs needs.
No one can predict exactly how your individual dog will behave.
The books, breeders, shelter workers and other dog owners can only speak from their experience.
Books try to give an accurate description of your breeds behavior but even dogs of the same breed don't learn the same way or have the exact personality as described in a book.
No one knows how a mutt will behave.
For example,if you choose a Labrador Retriever; they are described as great with children, have a playful personality, are very loving.
But, speaking from experience all labs are not the same they are individuals.
Just like you and I.
They can behave like a puppy even when they reach ages 3-4.
They tend to be boisterous puppies with large tails just right to knock over a toddler.
And they aren't always friendly! I had one that didn't care for kids of any age at all despite no problematic interactions.
Once you have answered these questions, you can make a sound decision.
Will you choose to adopt a dog from a shelter, or are you looking to acquire a show dog? Have you settled on the breed you want or is a mutt your first choice? Search carefully for the right dog for you and your family, if you have one.
Make a list of your needs.
Make a second list for the questions you need to ask anyone you get a dog from.
The right questions may help you avoid getting a dog that's going to grow too big for your house or apartment, a sick puppy mill dog that going to cost a lot at the vet or a dog that just doesn't fit your personality and lifestyle.
Make your decision wisely.