Why do we love puppies?

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Puppies are adorable and can bring us so much joy.  What's not to love?  It is important to remember they require lots of time, attention, and care.  Let's try to look past their adorability factor to find our newest best friend.  Every breed brings special qualities.  Knowing which one fits your lifestyle can make your search so much easier.

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Here are some questions to ask yourself:

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1. What size of dog fits well in your living space?

• X-Small (Avg Height: 5 – 12 inches & Avg Weight: 4 – 10 pounds)

• Small (Avg Height: 13 – 15 inches & Avg Weight: 7 – 14 pounds)

• Medium (Avg Height: 16 – 20 inches & Avg Weight: 40 -55 pounds)

• Large (Avg Height: 22 – 27 inches & Avg Weight: 50 – 70 pounds)

• X-Large (Avg Height: 24 – 27+ inches & Avg Weight: 70 – 130+ pounds)​

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2. What personality type works well for your family?

• Reserved, independent, and loyal

• Good-natured, calm, and strong

• Intelligent, confident, and calm

• Loyal, affectionate, and brave

• Alert, loyal, and trainable

• Independent and sweet

• Confident, famously funny, and fearless

• Affectionate, eager, and enthusiastic

• Independent, gentle, and noble

• Alert, smart, and people-oriented

• Friendly, smart, and willing to please

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3. Do you have other pets? 

• Yes

• No

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4. Do you have children?

• Under 10 years old

• 10 years old and up

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5. Do you or your family members have allergies?

• Yes, check out hyper-allergenic breeds.

• No allergies.

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6. Are you planning to do your own training or use a professional trainer?

• Training myself.

• Finding a professional trainer.

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7. What is your activity level?

• Very High Energy (60-120 minutes of exercise each day)

• Energetic (60 – 90 minutes of exercise each day)

• Moderate Energy (30 – 60 minutes of exercise each day)

• Low Energy (30 - 45 minutes of exercise each day)

• Calm (20 - 30 minutes of exercise each day)

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8. How much barking can you handle?

• Minimal because I live in the city.

• Vocal puppies are okay because I live in the country.

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9. How much grooming fits well in your schedule?

• Weekly

• Bi-weekly

• Monthly

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10. Can you afford to take care of a puppy including dedicating time and money?

• Puppy Supplies

• Puppy/Dog Food

• Vaccinations

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Okay, so now you have your answers, let’s find the best breed for you! 

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Check out the AKC Breed Selector Tool !