Bringing Home a New Puppy: Dr. Jordy’s Advice

Meet Dr. Jordy of Toronto’s Front Street Animal Hospital! Veterinarians meet new puppy parents often. While welcoming a puppy into your life is exciting, it comes with significant responsibilities and there are some recurring pitfalls that new dog owners face, many of which could be avoided with slowing down the decision making process and doing one’s research. 

If you're considering getting a puppy, here are some key pieces of advice from Dr. Jordy. His professional interests include dog and cat internal medicine, surgery, and dermatology. One of his priorities is to make each vet visit as positive of an experience as possible, especially for young pups.

Research Beyond A Dog's Looks: Choose the Right Breed for You

One of the most common mistakes vets see is a new pup parent focusing solely on a puppy's appearance or personality in their decision-making process without understanding the breed's health predispositions. For example:

• Dachshunds have long spines which make them prone to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD).

• Flat-faced breeds (brachycephalic) like French Bulldogs and Pugs are prone to breathing issues, overheating, and other complications due to their brachycephalic anatomy.

• Doodles, a popular hybrid, are not all bred by breeders who actually emphasize proper attention to lineage or genetic testing, which can lead to unpredictable health issues. Look for breeders who are committed to responsible and thoughtful breeding programs, even without necessarily being associated with a kennel club.  

While no dog is guaranteed to be perfectly healthy, understanding breed-specific risks helps you make an informed decision and prepare for potential challenges.

When Choosing a Breed - Consider Lifestyle and Family Fit

Choosing the right breed goes beyond health; you also need to consider:

• Energy levels: A high-energy breed like a Border Collie may not suit a low-activity household. Do you have a large or small living space? A backyard? Or, access to a dog park?

• Family dynamics: If you have young kids, it makes sense to consider breeds known for their patience and gentleness.

• Time and cost commitments: Puppies require training, socialization, and care, all of which demand significant time and financial investment.

Prepare for Veterinary Costs

Many new puppy owners are surprised by how much the first year costs in terms of veterinary care. Vaccines, spaying or neutering, and routine checkups add up quickly. Beyond that, ongoing preventive care (like parasite prevention, high-quality food, and dental maintenance) ensures your dog stays healthy but comes with additional expenses.

Proactive care is crucial. Vet care isn't just for emergencies; it includes regular checkups to catch potential issues early and ensure your pup thrives.

Invest in Pet Insurance Early

Dr. Jordy strongly advocates for pet insurance, especially for new puppies. It’s best to enroll your dog when they’re young and healthy, before any pre-existing conditions arise. It’s common to encounter families who struggle with tough decisions when faced with unexpected veterinary bills.

Emergencies are unpredictable. An after-hours visit for something as simple as diarrhea can cost $4,000, while a physical injury could run as high as $15,000. Pet insurance reduces the financial tension and lets you focus on what’s most important: getting your pup the immediate care that they need in a swift fashion without wasting time deliberating about cost. 

How to Choose the Right Breeder

If you’re shopping for a puppy through a breeder, be diligent. While even the best breeder cannot guarantee perfect health, responsible breeders take steps to minimize risks. Here’s what to look for:

• Documentation: Ask for detailed records of the puppy’s lineage, parents’ health screenings, genetic tests, and vaccination history.

• Agreement: A good breeder is comfortable with a formal agreement and often offers to take the puppy back if any problems arise shortly after sending them home. This signals confidence in their breeding practices and a commitment to the puppy’s welfare.

Bringing a puppy into your life is one of the most rewarding experiences, but it requires careful planning and ongoing commitment. By understanding the breed, budgeting for care, and protecting yourself with pet insurance, you can give your pup the best possible start and ensure a lifetime of health and happiness together.

If you’re ever unsure, consult your veterinarian. They’re here to guide you every step of the way!