Congratulations! You’re about to adopt a new puppy and enter a fabulous and fulfilling canine friendship. Besides lots of love and play, though, there are many things to consider as you’re deciding how to add this little furry friend to your family.

Breed: Do you want a sweet mixed-breed puppy or dog from the shelter? Or do you prefer a purebred puppy or dog with a pedigree? Dogs vary in physical appearance and personality type; this can be breed-dependent. It’s a good idea to make decisions prior to your search, as you may choose to examine shelters, contact cat breeders, or evaluate breed-specific rescue groups. It is extremely important to thoughtfully consider your current situation and the best dog for you. Please keep in mind that there are lots of puppies and dogs that desperately need a home. Even if you are looking for a specific breed, you might want to consider contacting breed rescues.

Age: Does the idea of a tiny, adorable, and round puppy appeal to you? Or do you want a more robust, older, and self-sufficient puppy? Perhaps you don’t want to deal with a juvenile at all and prefer an adult dog? Puppies are incredibly active, full of energy, and require training and lots of attention. Like babies, very young puppies need to eat frequently and don’t sleep through the night. In general, most puppies should be fully weaned from their mothers and eating solid food prior to starting off in a new home. Early removal from moms may result in health or behavior problems.

House Size: Do you have a big house or a tiny studio apartment? No matter where you reside, please make sure to give your puppy a safe place to rest. A crate is excellent for this. Also, make sure that you have adequate room for storing toys, food, leash, and crate. Also determine whether certain rooms in the house will be “off limits” to the puppy. “Puppy-proof” your home by keeping medications and cleaners locked up and appliances closed off. Restrict your puppy’s access to yarn, string, paper clips, staples, and hair bands—all are commonly-identified foreign bodies, which if swallowed can be injurious or even fatal. Restrict your puppy’s access to trash cans and food scraps.

Exercise: Certain dog breeds need significant amounts of exercise to stay happy and well-adjusted. Destructive and anxious behaviors can result from minimal exercise, low stimulation, and lack of socialization. Some breeds are content to sit on their owner’s laps all day long, while others need to exercise for at least an hour today. Other breeds are content to spend time alone for long hours, while others cannot tolerate solitary time.

Spaying/Neutering: Spaying and neutering is usually recommended for all pets. Not only to help deal with the overpopulation problem, but also to help prevent behavioral problems and certain health issues. Please discuss this with your veterinarian.

Other cats and dogs: It is important to introduce any other dogs or cats to your puppy under slow and controlled circumstances. Pets gradually acclimate to one another. Please talk to your veterinarian if you’re having difficulties with this.

Children: Do you have babies or children? Teach the children to interact with the puppy gently and with respect. NEVER allow young children or babies to be unsupervised with the puppy.

Playtime: Make sure that you keep things to chew (approved by your veterinarian) and plenty of enrichment toys available for your puppy to enjoy. In addition, please ensure that your puppy has plenty of regular contact with human household members both for play and for appropriate socialization.

Food: Are you going to feed dry kibble or canned food? Both have benefits: dry food is easier to store and handle and can be left out for long periods of time, while canned food is palatable and puppies love it. Many veterinarians recommend breed and size-based diets for puppies. Some dogs will also eat non-prescription sensitive stomach and oral care food.

Necessary Supplies: You need a leash, food/water dishes, dog food, toys, dog bed, urine/feces cleaner, enrichment toys, chew toys, and a crate. It’s a good idea to invest in some books about basic puppy training and management.

Veterinarian: Identify your veterinarian as soon as you can prior to adoption. Your veterinarian will be your most important resource for your puppy’s health and husbandry.

Congratulations on your new family member! Rely on your veterinarian to take you through the joys of dog companionship; they are an excellent resource.

Disclaimer: This website is not intended to replace professional consultation, diagnosis, or treatment by a licensed veterinarian. If you require any veterinary related advice, contact your veterinarian promptly. Information at DogHealth.com is exclusively of a general reference nature. Do not disregard veterinary advice or delay treatment as a result of accessing information at this site.