Couldn't say no at Christmas?

December 26, 9:57 AMDenver Dynamic Dogs ExaminerGail Kirkegaard

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Find out where to hike and play with your dog

You found the puppy way too irresistable.  Now your child or spouse has a new pet for the next fifteen years, more or less. 

Hopefully, you put a lot of thought and planning into the purchase decision.  If you have had a dog before, you are familiar with the basics.  That way, you won't be surprised that puppies make messes and noise, and can be destructive for two years or more. You know full well that a dog is not an easy keeper, like a parakeet or a cat.

Where not to get a dog

I hope you didn't get your cute canine from a pet shop or puppy mill breeder.  Buying from them only encourages continued irresponsible breeding.  People find it a convenient way to make money on the side while working at a job or other business.  It seems like an attractive venture for dog lovers, but in truth, it is not kind to animals.  We read stories all the time about places that have more dogs than they can handle safely and healthfully.  Too many dogs are overbred, unsocialized, starved, neglected, and left to die unwanted.

The breeder who seldom or never shows the dogs, and boasts about having puppies available year around is not first and foremost concerned about the health of the dog nor the integrity of the breed.

Good places to get a dog

Adopt from a shelter or rescue.  They do not breed puppies, but are nonprofits that do care about the outcome of the dogs.

For a purebred, the breeders from whom to purchase a pet would be a show home that does not produce more than a couple of carefully planned litters a year. Of course, even a handsome "pet" quality pup from these litters, who is not considered a potential star show dog will run hundreds of dollars.  But the reputable breeder will provide health guarantees or offer to take the animal back from you if the match does not work out for some reason.  They don't want that faithful, furry new family member to end up lost, abused, dead on the street or surrendered to a shelter.

What to do next

Let's say you did not give your adoption much preparation. Before too long, you will tire of poopy carpets, howling, chewing and digging.  What are you going to do?  What is your plan to eliminate buyer's remorse?

Other than puppy food and dishes, your basics are a crate and bedding, chew toys, a leash and collar.  To help you choose equipment, a good book about dog care and training is essential.  Breed books help people understand their growing dog's behavior. 

Playtime with the family is critical. Don't leave him outside or alone all day.  Dogs have had centuries of human companionship, and want to be part of the family.  Teach him "good dog" and "no."  Positively reinforce the manners you like to see.  Reduce the manners you don't want by avoiding opportunities for them to develop.  

They need to be socialized with other puppies.  Enroll him in a puppy kindergarten.  He will learn from you, as the instructor will teach you how to work as a team in commands such as sit, down, heel, stay and come.  The classes usually have a few fun little competitions, such as best outfit on dressup day, puppy tricks, or fastest recall.

Beyond basics

Once your dog has become an enjoyable and obedient pal, and put on a few months of growth, you might like to look into activities to keep him busy and exercised.  There are a number of great ways for you and your dog to have fun together in the Denver area.  Flyball and Frisbee, hunting and field trials, agility and obedience competition are wonderful means to a lasting, fulfilling relationship with your dog.

For training, supplies and pet shelters, check out my Local Dynamic Dogs list and other resources on the right side of this page.