I want to start this post by stating that I am a BIG fan of really planning ahead if you've decided to bring a puppy into your home. I don't think enough people are aware of the many variables that will influence your dog's behaviour and personality. Some research will go a long way!
Puppies Are Not Blank Slates
When we bring home a new puppy, it's tempting to think of them as a blank slate, ready to be shaped by us. But the truth is, puppies come with a whole set of instincts, behaviours, and even personality traits that aren’t fully within our control. Just like people, they are born with certain tendencies. You might notice one puppy in a litter who’s confident and adventurous, while another is more reserved and cautious. These differences don’t just come from how they’re raised—they’re often there from the start.
Puppies also inherit things from their parents. Genetics play a big role in how they’re wired. If a puppy’s parents were fearful or reactive, there’s a chance they’ll show some of those same traits, even with all the right socialization. That doesn’t mean they can’t learn and grow, but it does mean we need to be realistic about their nature. The environment we create for them, combined with the experiences they have, can make a huge impact, but their starting point isn’t always a blank page.
Understanding this can help set more realistic expectations. Instead of trying to mold them into what we think they should be, we can focus on understanding who they are and what they need to thrive. It’s about working with their natural tendencies, not against them.
Does Breed Matter?
When it comes to choosing a dog, picking the right breed really matters. So many times, people fall in love with a breed based on looks or what they’ve seen in movies or online, but the reality can be very different. Every breed has its own set of characteristics, and these traits are often deeply ingrained, meaning no matter how much training or socialization you do, you’ll still be dealing with the basic nature of that dog. A high-energy working breed, for example, is going to need a ton of physical and mental exercise to be happy. If your lifestyle doesn’t match that, both you and the dog might end up frustrated.
While breed can give us some clues about a dog's general characteristics, it’s not always a perfect indicator of temperament. Each dog is an individual, and things like early socialization, environment, and even genetics play a huge role in shaping behaviour. There’s a study published in Science that looked at over 18,000 dogs and found that breed explains only about 9% of the variation in individual behaviour. This research highlights that, while breed traits exist, we can’t rely solely on them to predict how a dog will act. So, even if you choose a breed known for being calm or easygoing, your dog’s unique experiences and personality can still make a big difference.
Ultimately, the goal is to have a happy, well-adjusted dog, and that starts with choosing a breed that matches your energy, your schedule, and your living situation. It’s about finding a fit where both you and your dog are set up for success from the start. Just keep in mind, there are never any guarantees, be prepared if your dog doesn't develop into the dog you envisioned in your mind!
Adopting From A Shelter Or Rescue
When visiting a litter or a shelter, take time to observe how the puppies interact with their surroundings. Are they curious and playful, or are they more reserved? Look for a puppy that’s confident and curious and avoid ones that seem overly fearful or withdrawn. A good balance between independence and sociability is ideal. Watch how they interact with you too—do they approach you willingly, seem interested, or shy away? These behaviours can give you insight into how they may develop and grow as an adult and potential behaviour challenges.
You should also ask questions about the puppy’s background and health. If the puppy comes from a shelter, ask about their history, even if it’s limited—where did they come from, and do they know anything about the parents? Don't forget, the moms pregnancy and stress will impact the puppies development. For both shelter and breeder puppies, make sure to ask about any health screenings or vaccinations the puppies have had so far. Find out if they’ve been exposed to different types of socialization, such as new people, sounds, and environments, as this can make a big difference in how well they adjust later on.
Lastly, trust your instincts. If something feels off, don’t rush the decision. Bringing a puppy into your life is a long-term commitment, so take the time to choose one that feels like the right fit for both your head and your heart.
Choosing A Breeder
Choosing the right breeder is a critical step in finding a healthy, well-adjusted puppy. A responsible breeder does more than just sell puppies; they are genuinely invested in the well-being of their dogs and the breed as a whole. One of the first things to look for is how much the breeder knows about the breed and whether they are willing to educate you. They should be happy to answer your questions and provide guidance on whether the breed is a good fit for your lifestyle.
When visiting a breeder, take a close look at how the dogs are raised. A good breeder will keep their dogs in a clean, well-maintained environment with plenty of opportunities for socialization. The puppies should be exposed to different people, sounds, and experiences to help them develop into well-rounded adults. Make sure the breeder is giving the puppies time to interact with their litter-mates, as this is crucial for learning bite inhibition and other important social skills.
Don’t hesitate to ask about the health testing that’s been done on both the parents and the puppies. A responsible breeder will conduct genetic screenings for any breed-specific health issues and will be transparent about the results. They should also provide you with documentation of vaccinations and any other medical care the puppies have received. Avoid breeders who cannot provide this information or seem reluctant to do so, as it can be a red flag for poor breeding practices.
Lastly, pay attention to how the breeder interacts with their dogs. A good breeder will be bonded with their dogs and care deeply about where their puppies go. They should ask you plenty of questions too—about your home, lifestyle, and experience with dogs. This shows that they are as invested in finding the right match for their puppies as you are in choosing the right one for your family. If a breeder seems more focused on making a sale than ensuring a good fit, it’s best to walk away. Taking the time to find a reputable breeder can make all the difference in bringing home a healthy, well-adjusted puppy.
What Age Should A Puppy Come Home?
The ideal age to bring a puppy home is typically around 8 to 10 weeks old. At this stage, puppies have had enough time to learn important social skills from their mother and littermates, such as bite inhibition and basic canine communication. These early weeks with their litter play a crucial role in shaping their behaviour and helping them become well-adjusted dogs.
Bringing a puppy home too early, before 8 weeks, can lead to behavioural issues because they may miss out on critical learning during this period. On the other hand, waiting much longer than 10 weeks can sometimes result in missed opportunities for socialization with humans during a sensitive developmental window. Around 8 to 10 weeks is when puppies are most ready to bond with their new families while still being young enough to adapt to new environments and experiences easily.
If you're purchasing from a breeder, a responsible breeder will make sure the puppies are ready to leave their mother and siblings at this appropriate age. It’s always good to double-check that the puppy has been well-socialized, started on basic handling, and is comfortable being around different people and situations before bringing them home.
Have Fun!
In the end, bringing a puppy into your life is an exciting and rewarding journey, but it’s important to approach it thoughtfully. Whether you're adopting or going through a breeder, understanding that puppies aren’t blank slates and considering your lifestyle, the breed, and the puppy’s temperament will set you up for success. Asking the right questions and doing your research can help ensure that you bring home a puppy who will thrive in your home and become a cherished member of your family for years to come. It’s all about finding the right match for both you and the puppy.