Puggle Playhouse

Purchasing a Puggle

Purchasing a Puggle pup is a lot like adopting a baby. Before you sign on the dotted line, your goal is to gain as much knowledge about the pup's family history to ensure that the dog you select is healthy. Whatever you do, avoid compulsive purchasing on the holidays or any other day. Remember, this is a commitment of 10 years or more.

Breeder verses Pet Shop

Sometimes the hardest decision you will make in purchasing a Puggle pup is 'who' you're going to purchase the pup from. The American Kennel Club (AKC) has developed standards for each breed. Breeders specialize in breeding specific breeds and know the advantages and disadvantages to owning a Puggle.

There is some 'piece of mind' to purchasing a pup from a breeder, but it comes with a higher price. Breeders charge $1,800 to $2,300 for the same breed of dog that the pet shop sells for $800. Why does it cost more?

• The breeder is a specialist in breeding Puggles.
  
• The breeder registers the pup with the AKC for you.
  
• The breeder provides ongoing support in the raising a healthier Puggle.

In the past decade, more and more people are hearing about puppy mills. Puppy mills breed mass quantities of pups, mix bred and purebred. It's common for puppy mills to operate illegally. If the puppies are not sold, they are killed.

World wide rumors have circulated about pet shops purchasing pups from puppy mills. It's believed that the under market cost of the breeds they purchase is what attracts pet shop owners to engaging in this type of business. The Human Society and other organizations watch pet shops in the USA closely.

Pet shops provide a one-stop shopping experience for the consumer.

• Variety of breeds to choose from
  
• Toys and accessories for your Puggle pup
  
• Pups are registered with the AKC
  
• Pups come with shots and a 60-day warranty

Any purchase you make has a risk. Whether you decide to purchase your Puggle pup from a breeder or pet shop, there is no guarantee that your pup will be healthy. But if you have all of the facts, you increase your chances.

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Purchasing from a Breeder

Every decision you make from here on out must be carefully planned. In order to make an intelligent decision when purchasing from a breeder, you need to evaluate the conditions of the Puggle pup's environment, examine the parents for physical defects, watch the playfulness of the litter, and ask the breeder a series of valuable questions.

• Did the veterinarian examine the pups?
  
• Are the parents healthy?
  
• How many were in the litter?

If the pups' environment is dirty, don't hesitate to walk away. Breeders know better! Poor living conditions means there is potential for future health problems. You're investing a great deal of money, not to mention the emotional bond to the pup, so be picky.

With all of the mix breeding going on, it's important that you consult with an experienced veterinarian to learn the downside to purchasing a hybrid breed like the Puggle. Veterinarians can provide you with valuable information on the genetic disorders, diseases, and illnesses likely to inflect a Puggle. Weigh the pros and cons before you make a final decision.

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Examine the Pup

Look closely at the Puggle pup for any signs of illness. Avoid a pup that is sluggish or shy. Chances are they will become timid as an adult and shy away from people. Avoid an overactive pup. Test the security of the pup by cradling him in your arms. If he lays calmly staring up at you, you have a keeper.

Check the Puggle pup's skin for dryness or sores. Check teeth and jaw structure. If a fowl odor comes from the pup's mouth, bring it to the breeder's attention. Look closely at the eyes for excessive drainage and defects.

It's important that you have all of the facts before you venture out to purchase a Puggle pup. Once you've determined which puppy is right for you, separate the pups you're interested in from the litter. Watch how they play together and interact with them. The Puggle pup that just can't leave you alone is your best pick. Unlike adopting a baby, the puppy adopts you.