A puppy should be a well thought out decision and the right decision will be of a breed whose size and temperament make them a good fit for your family.
Purebred puppies can be a perfect fit for some families and other families may prefer a mixed breed.
When choosing a mixed breed puppy it is important to gather as much information as possible on the breeds and temperament of puppy's parents.
If there were health issues with either parent, then it is important that the puppy's new family know about that ahead of time.
Breeders may offer mixed breed puppies and often have very detailed records on the sire and dam of these puppies.
When visiting breeders it is likely that every puppy looks too cute to resist.
However, the family will probably already have decided on a size puppy and narrowed down the breed selection.
A Saint Bernard in an apartment rarely works out well even though it may start out as a tiny little puppy.
On the other hand, a tiny tea cup poodle may not be suitable for a family with very small children.
Even the best behaved children can put a lot of wear and tear and stress on a puppy and a mid-sized dog may be the best choice.
Certain breeds may be far more tolerant of young children than others and speaking to the breeder can help a family select the right breed for them.
When visiting a breeder the very best ones will ask the family a lot of questions.
This is not usually a dog breeder being nosy but in order to help a family choose the best breed of puppy for them.
A lot of information about the family's lifestyle and habits is required to match the dog to the family so that both are happy with the match.
Breeders ideally are concerned about the puppies fitting the families with which they are matched.
That means a concerned and conscientious puppy breeder will not only ask a lot of questions in order to make good suggestions but will encourage the family to visit the puppies, and not try and push them into a decision.
A lifetime commitment to a new puppy is not something decided hastily.
Good breeders often encourage a family to come, play with the puppies, go home and consider and it and come back again.
Being sure that the right puppy has been chosen means that neither the family nor puppy will regret the decision and several trips may be necessary.
When visiting a breeder spends a few moments observing the puppies, clear eyes and a glossy coat are important signs of good health.
When picking up a healthy puppy they will not cringe or whine at gentle touches, be aware of signs of pain in a puppy when visiting them.
Shy puppies may just be, shy, however it is important that puppies who growl or show signs of aggression be carefully considered especially if there are children in the house.
One of the matches a breeder can help in making is that of family energy and time available against the needs of the puppy.
Some breeds require a lot more personal attention and interaction in order to remain healthy and happy.
A family whose time is limited may find that a needier puppy is a poor match while a more self sufficient puppy breed is perfect.
In almost every single case, a good breeder can help make this difficult decision easier and one that is not made in haste.
Encouraging a family to make several trips to visit the puppies is not a means to secure a sale, but instead a method to assure an ideal match between the new puppy and the eager family.
Be wary of any breeder that attempts to rush you into making a decision as important as choosing the right puppy.
If there is any question about the suitability of a breed or a particular puppy for the family, ask the breeder.
A good breeder is anxious to place that puppy in a good home and by definition that is one that meets both the puppy and family's needs.
The best breeders will often volunteer advice that can help with the puppy choice or steer a family toward several very suitable breeds.