Puppies don’t always make great gifts under the tree
Please don’t give a puppy as a holiday gift. As a professional dog behavioral therapist and trainer, I see cases year after year of puppies that were given as a “wow for now” surprise, but when the newness wore off and their owners became tired of all the daily puppy care responsibilities, they were neglected, given up or even abused.
A living puppy should not be thought of in the same category as a holiday toy. When a puppy is adopted, he should be carefully chosen as a permanent addition to the family who will contribute much but will also have needs of his own, which require a serious commitment from all family members to meet.
Many dogs surrendered to shelters are young – just 6 months to 3 years old – and a good portion of these are puppies less than 6 months old. In addition, people need to know that the number-one cause of death for dogs isn’t trauma or disease – it’s euthanasia due to behavior problems In fact, three to four million dogs and cats will be euthanized this year in the U.S. That number could include the cute puppy you bought as a Christmas gift.
Adding a puppy to your life is, on average, a 15-year responsibility. Raising a happy, well-balanced puppy requires an enormous time commitment, so a young pup is not a suitable choice for every dog lover. Remember, it may take several years for a rambunctious puppy to settle down into a calmer adult dog.
If the recipient seems ready for a puppy, be sure he or she can answer yes to these questions:
• Are you ready to participate in training and managing all aspects of the responsibilities of puppy (and dog) ownership each and every day?
• Can you afford to provide good nutrition, veterinary care, training and everything else the pup will need to become a good canine citizen?
• Are you willing to walk or take your dog out to toilet at least six times a day, in all sorts of weather?
• Do you have a reliable pet sitter or dog walker who can care for your pet when you’re at work or out of town?
If someone on your gift list really wants a puppy, consider giving a homemade gift certificate for one instead. Wrap a can of dog food, fancy collar or good book on raising a puppy and include a note saying a puppy (or dog) of the recipient’s choice comes with the gift.
And remember, too, that dogs of all ages make good companions. Most adult dogs tend to be calmer, have more predictable behaviors and are already housebroken.
If your gift recipient is really ready for dog ownership, set a date after the holidays to start looking for the perfect dog. Research responsible breeders or visit your local animal shelter or rescue so the gift recipient can choose a dog to match his or her lifestyle.
The holidays are the giving season, so give a puppy his best chance to become a long-term companion and have a happy life by not putting him under the tree.
Cheryl Kubista is a master dog behavioral therapist and trainer with Bark Busters Home Doge Training, 4061 Twp. Rd. 15, Woodville.
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