So,
you think you want a Pitbull Puppy!!!
Before taking on such a large commitment, please read on to learn
about some of
the things to expect when raising a puppy. If this doesn't sound
like fun, perhaps
you should consider an older dog.
Any dog is a HUGE responsibility and a lifetime commitment. Please
be prepared for
the role of responsible dog ownership before taking the step and
buying a puppy, or adopting a dog. Unfortunately, many people put
more thought into buying a car, or a major household appliance than
they do when considering adding a dog to their home.
A dog will be in your home for a long time. A dog is not an item, or
a piece of furniture, it is a family member you are
adding. Please do not take this responsibility lightly.
Unfortunately, we have come to live in a time of 'disposable' dogs,
and people do not think twice before dumping, or abandoning an
animal. Be prepared for the role of RESPONSIBLE dog owner, and
do not be a part of the problem.
Be
Prepared for:
A few sleepless
nights ignoring howling, crying & barking, until your puppy
learns that this is his new home.
A lot of Carpet
Cleaning, and wet spots. Puppies DO have accidents!!
A few damaged
items around the house. Puppies DO chew, and are bound to
damage/destroy at least one thing they were not supposed to
have!
Babyproofing
your home! Like a toddler, puppies find things that can hurt
them!
You will need to hide wires, and keep potentially dangerous
items like chocolates,
and cleaners out of reach. Adding a puppy is like bringing home
a toddler, you MUST be prepared!!!!
Constant
supervision. If you can't watch your puppy, crate your puppy. A
crate is NOT a prison. It is more like a 'playpen'. Would you
let your toddler stay home alone, or wander the house
unattended??
Boxer puppies
can be particularly good at testing your patience. These are
rambunctious, bold puppies who can be hard to tire out!! Some
seem to be on the go CONSTANTLY.
Also
remember......
Puppies are much
like babies. They need lots of interaction. If someone will not
be at home most of the day, a puppy may be a poor choice for
your family.
Puppies need to
be taken outside many times during the day to reinforce
housebreaking. You cannot blame a puppy for pottying in the
house, if he/she isn't given enough chances to 'go' outside.
Adult dogs have better bladder control than puppies and can be
expected to 'hold it' a bit longer, and are more capable of
learning how to 'tell you' they have to go out!
Puppies need to
be taught what is appropriate to chew on, and what is NOT an
appropriate toy! Don't give your puppy an old shoe and then
expect them to know the difference between the old shoes and
your new pair of $80 tennis shoes.
Puppies need to
be trained. Your puppy needs your time, and your patience to
learn how they are supposed to behave. With no socialization or
training, your puppy may NOT grow up to be an ideal companion.
This is NOT the dogs fault, but more so, the owners for not
socializing or training the dog when it was young.
Do you and your
puppy a favor. LEARN about training, and ask your breeder for
help if needed. Many of the 'old' methods of dog 'training' do
nothing but RUIN a good dog. "Sticking their nose in
it" does MUCH more harm than good. A good
training Book can help you learn how dogs think, and learn.
