There is so much that goes into getting a puppy. I am not going to sit here and tell you all of the things that you will need, I mean I will, just not in this post. The very first thing that you need to do BEFORE, notice I said before you get a puppy; is to figure out what kind of lifestyle you want and research what dogs would fit that lifestyle.
Take it from me! I did not do this, nor did I listen to a single soul who said, “Shannon, you are out of your mind, that dog is going to be so high energy.” I just kept thinking, it’s fine, I can handle it…..yeah, so that is why we are having this conversation. I live a relatively calm life. I do not go out and do a lot of running or anything like that, in fact, I go to the gym because I love food and I hike because I get to see beautiful views. So, getting Shadow, who is a super high energetic dog who needs constant exercise and mental stimulation, probably was not my best decision. I love her, do not mistake this as I do not love my little Crackhead, because I do, but holy hell in dog form!! Fast forward a few months, I got Chaos, who is the exact opposite of Shadow. He is super mellow and mostly just lies around, more my speed.
Wow, ok, so anyway. The important thing is that you choose a dog that fits who you and your family are. Do not lie to yourselves, all you will do is make your life harder. If you and your family like to be homebodies, look for a dog that is lower on energy or does not need a lot of exercise, like a Great Dane, or a King Charles. (hehe, opposite ends of the size spectrum) If you and your family have a very active life style that you feel would be good for a high energy dog, then go for it! Look that that Lab or that German Shepard (not my first choice) or if you dare a GSP, For those of you who do not know that is a German Shorthaired Pointer. If you are really ballsy, and I do not recommend this, again I DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS for a new furry friend family, a Malinois.
At the end of the day, be honest with yourself, do the research, and if you have questions, ask them! Make sure you get the right Pupper for you and your family.
Barks and Licks,
Shadow and Chaos