Choosing the right puppy is a big decision, and it’s important to ensure their temperament, health, and energy level match your lifestyle.

Here are the key signs to help you know you’ve picked the right puppy…

Temperament Matches Your Lifestyle

• Energy Level – Consider your daily life and activity level. If you’re looking for a laid-back companion, choose a calmer puppy. If you’re active and enjoy outdoor activities, a more energetic puppy that loves playtime and exercise may be the best fit.
• Socialization – A well-adjusted puppy should show curiosity and confidence. It should interact comfortably with you and other people but not be overly shy, fearful, or aggressive. Puppies that approach new people and situations with a balanced attitude are more likely to adapt well to their new home.

Healthy Puppy

• Physical Health – A healthy puppy should have clear eyes, a shiny coat, and healthy skin. It should be active, alert, and not displaying signs of illness like lethargy, coughing, or digestive problems.
• Vet Check – Ensure the puppy has received its first round of vaccinations and deworming. A responsible breeder should provide health records and be transparent about any health issues or concerns with the litter.

Confidence and Adaptability

• Curiosity – A good puppy will show interest in its environment without being excessively fearful. It should approach new people, toys, and experiences with curiosity and excitement, not retreating or showing anxiety.
• Resilience – Observe how the puppy reacts to mild stress, such as a sudden noise or a change in the environment. A puppy that is resilient, recovering quickly and calmly, is more likely to adjust well to the transition into your home.

Behavior Balance

• Playfulness – A well-adjusted puppy will engage in play without being overly dominant or submissive. It should have a healthy balance of independence and social interaction, playing nicely with littermates or humans without showing signs of aggression or excessive shyness.
• Calmness – Puppies that are too hyperactive or overly clingy may require more training and attention. A balanced puppy, who is both playful and able to relax, is generally easier to train and live with.

Fit for Your Experience Level

• First-Time Dog Owners – If you’re new to raising dogs, look for a puppy that is more laid-back and less likely to have behavioral issues. Some breeds and individual puppies are naturally more challenging and may require more experience.
• Active Families – If you’re looking for a dog to join in active pursuits like running or hiking, choose a puppy with the right energy and drive. A more high-energy puppy may be the best choice for an active lifestyle, while a more laid-back one would suit a quieter home.

Bonding and Connection

• Natural Connection – Sometimes, you just “click” with a particular puppy. If you feel a special connection or your heart is drawn to one puppy over another, that’s a good sign. The right puppy should feel like it’s meant to be with you, and there should be a natural sense of bonding during your interaction.

Meet the Parents

• Mother’s Temperament – Meeting the puppy’s mother (and father, if possible) can give you an idea of the puppy’s temperament and behavior as it grows. If the parents are friendly, calm, and well-behaved, there’s a good chance the puppy will share some of these traits.
• Socialization and Environment – Puppies raised in a well-socialized, enriched environment tend to develop into more confident and adaptable adults. Ask the breeder about how the puppies were raised and exposed to different environments and people.

Gut Feeling

• Trust Your Instincts – Your intuition plays a big role in choosing the right puppy. If something feels “right” about a specific puppy, even if you can’t pinpoint why, it’s often a good sign. Trust how you feel when interacting with the puppy and envision your future together.

The right puppy should match your lifestyle, exhibit good health, and have a balanced temperament that aligns with your expectations. Look for a puppy that’s confident, curious, and social, and make sure they’re a good physical and emotional fit for your home. Take your time to get to know the puppies, observe their behaviors, and trust your instincts to ensure you’ve made the right choice for your family.