When you’re searching for a sweet new puppy companion, it’s natural to want to bring home the first one that wins over your heart. But when it comes to a faithful friend that’s going to be a part of your life for years to come, it’s important to make an informed decision. You want to ensure that you’re bringing a healthy and happy pup into your home and that you’re dealing with a reputable seller.
Here are some important questions to ask when buying a puppy online.
1. How was the puppy socialized?
All dogs thrive on the loving attention of humans, but this is especially important during their first few months of life. Ask whether the pup enjoys positive interactions with people and is comfortable being handled or groomed. You’re still going to have train your puppy and introduce new environments and experiences, but ensuring your new friend has a positive start to life reduces the chances of it being frightened, aggressive or unstable.
2. Has the puppy been examined by a veterinarian?
One of the most important questions to ask when adopting a puppy is whether a licensed vet has provided a thorough health check. What other assurances can the seller provide that the puppy is healthy?
Ask who the veterinarian is and make sure there are papers confirming that the dog has been dewormed. Ask what shots have been given and what vaccines are still required. What about spaying or neutering? Are there health concerns you should know about? Puppies with health issues are just as lovable, but it’s important you know in advance about any concerns so you can decide if you can give the fur baby the care it needs.
3. Can I see the puppy in person?
The best way to know if your puppy is coming from safe and comfortable conditions is to see the environment yourself. Reputable sellers welcome you to visit their premises. If you’re buying a puppy online and are too far away to visit in person, be sure the seller can be easily reached by telephone and is open to answering your questions. You may even be able to see the puppy by video.
4. Do you have references?
It’s always a good idea to see what experiences other customers have had when adopting puppies from the same business. Ask the seller for references, or search online for Google or Yelp reviews. These can tell you if previous customers have had issues and, more importantly, how they’ve been addressed. You can also inquire about the company’s credentials or memberships in associations.
5. Are there any guarantees?
Hopefully, you and your canine companion will enjoy a long and happy life together, but you should know if there are warranties in place in case something unexpected arises. Make sure you understand what happens once you’ve adopted your puppy. Are there any circumstances under which the business will replace the puppy if something unforeseen happens?
A puppy is an important part of your life for many years to come. Before you’re tempted by a pup’s big, beautiful eyes and adorable face, take time to ensure it’s healthy and well-adjusted and that there are checks in place in case there are problems.
If you’re ready to take the first step toward welcoming a puppy into your home, George Puppies Online is ready to answer all of your questions.
