We have all walked past the pet stores and seen the cute puppies for sale. How sweet they look, dont we all want one? However, when you see a puppy for sale, never buy one on impulse.

Before getting a puppy you need to ask yourself if your lifestyle is suited to owning a puppy. If you rent a property, will your landlord allow you to buy a puppy? Buying a puppy brings much responsibility and a few restraints on your time. When you get a puppy, youre going to have to spend time training him, grooming him, exercising him and of course, with him being so young, cleaning up after him! Still want to buy a puppy?

If you decide you are ready to get a puppy, the next decision you need to make is on which breed of puppy to buy. If you have decided on a breed, then you need to do some research on that breed. Find out how big your puppy will grow, will they shed much fur on your carpets? What kind of characteristics does that breed display?

The next question to ask yourself is where youre going to buy a puppy from? There are many options available and you need to take great care when purchasing a puppy.

There are many dog breeders out there, some good and some bad. If you are looking to buy a puppy from a breeder, then do some research on the dog breeder in question. Go and view the breeders kennels and dogs. Are they clean and well kept? Do they look after their puppies? A reputable dealer will ask you questions before allowing you to buy a puppy, they care about their puppies and will make sure they are going to a good home. These are the breeders you want to deal with!

Another choice when buying a puppy, is that pet store we mentioned. However, youd be ill advised to buy a puppy from a pet store. These puppies come from puppy mills, where puppies are bred for money and kept and herded in cages all their lives. Buying puppies from a pet store is asking for trouble. They are more prone to disease and temperament problems.

Another choice is the animal shelter. They have dogs and puppies for adoption. The staff care about their animals and you will find them very helpful. They will give you all information you need regarding the puppy your interested in. They work hard to help their puppies settle into a new home.

Before purchasing a puppy, hold him and stroke him, see how he reacts to your touch. Is he comfortable with your touch, or does he show his teeth or freeze up?

Before getting a puppy home, be sure you have all the dog supplies youll need. Be sure you have some dog bowls for food and water, a collar and leash, some chew toys and a bed for your puppy.