Are You Thinking About Getting a Poodle?

I wrote an inventory of some helpful things to think about when you are deciding if a Poodle is the right dog for you and your family.

1. Did you do your research about the Poodle breed? There are many informative books available as well as a great deal of online information regarding the Poodle, including the characteristics of the breed and routine care.

2. Do you have enough time available daily to be able to properly care for a dog? Do you have enough patience and motivation for training your puppy, and helping him get the appropriate exercise, healthy diet, and necessary grooming?

3. Are you ready and committed to take care of a dog and have him with your family for many years to come?

4. Are you interested in a dog that is playful, pleasant, and typically loves to be with people?

5. If there are children in your house are they old enough to know about the proper treatment and responsibility of safely caring for a puppy?

6. Are you able to afford the veterinary health checks and proper food for a healthy and nutritious diet for your dog?

7. Did you consider a plan for maintaining your new Poodle's beautiful coat? Are you able to afford routine professional grooming or do you plan on purchasing grooming supplies and learning how to do this yourself in the proper manner?

8. Do you have a safe and comfortable place to keep your Poodle when you are temporarily not at home for a few hours, such as when you might be at your place of employment, or doing your grocery shopping, or doing necessary errands?

9. Are you aware what dog or puppy supplies that you may need to bring a new puppy into your home to keep him comfortable, healthy and safe?

10. Do you routinely need to travel away from home for any job requirements? Do you always take a vacation away from home once or twice a year? If you need to be away from your home for more than a few hours, what are you planning to do with your dog? Are you planning on taking him on vacation with you and your family, if possible? If you are unable to bring your dog with you during your travel time away from home, are you able and willing to make the required arrangements for your dog to be properly cared for during that time period. Always remember the importance of your dog's comfort, health and safety.