by Carolyn Lincoln | Dog Behavior, Dog Training Tips
by Dr. Carolyn Lincoln | Dog Behavior, Dog Training Tips
by Dr. Carolyn Lincoln | General, Puppies
Four years ago in November, I was sitting with a huge phone book size catalog on my lap in a folding chair. It was a hot, dusty day at the large State Fair arena in Tennessee watching the Australian Shepherd National Specialty Show.
With dirt on the pages, my pencil scratched as I took notes on breed lines, breeders and rescues, carefully watching the dogs in the ring. In between, I talked to owners.
I knew I wanted a puppy that minute and couldn’t wait to hold one in my arms, snuggle and begin our life together, but I also knew I needed to do my homework… especially since I wanted another Aussie. Loving this breed is my “poison”… haha! I used to say to myself, “WHY!? WHY do you have to love this difficult breed!?”
Still… it was SO hard to wait! Can you relate?
But it is so important that you get the right dog for you and that you are the right person for the dog. You’ll hopefully have many years together so get started out right.
Watch this video before you choose your puppy or dog
Get the checklist here
Leave me a comment below and let me know what breed or rescue you are considering.
by Dr. Carolyn Lincoln | General, Puppies
Look on youtube and you’ll find tons of videos showing children and adults opening the huge box with the puppy inside! There are screams and laughter and tears all around and it’s SO EXCITING!!!
…BUT they don’t show you what happens later that day or the next day or the next when the puppy is peeing on things, biting or even growling because it’s become terrified.
Now that doesn’t mean you can’t or shouldn’t give a puppy as a big gift. You can.
Just do it right so your child, parent or significant other AND the puppy get off to the best start possible and avoid causing any trauma.
First, make sure a dog is really going to be welcome and planned for in your home. Do you know what characteristics are important to you when choosing a dog? Do you have the time and energy that a puppy needs? Do you have experience raising or owning a dog?
A good rule of thumb to keep in mind is that a puppy can make a good idea for a gift…
…IF your loved one would have gotten the puppy anyway…
…AND if you give the puppy in the right way.
So if you think you might go for a puppy as a gift, watch the video below and watch for more videos coming up to help you choose that puppy or dog and for more specifics on what you need to have ready.
Watch the video here
Leave me a comment below if you think you’ll be getting a puppy at holiday time or if you know someone who might do it.