Movies and television have portrayed the idea that puppies and kittens make heartwarming holiday gifts for kids, spouses & other loved ones. However, the reality is more often heart wrenching for most of these living, breathing “gifts”, not to mention the families who often end up giving up these puppies once they grow
and require more time, attention, training & expenses than the family ever expected or can give!! Studies show that too often the gift puppy is given up within the 1st year, starved for training, socialization and affection.
Why Is A Christmas Dog A Mistake:
First, because no animal should be a surprise!! The arrival of a dog changes the household dynamics considerably, for many years. Someone has to take responsibility for their daily needs; feeding, exercise, health care and grooming. The decision to bring a puppy into the home should be seriously evaluated, considered, and discussed amongst all those involved. Careful research should be done in order to find the right breed for your family’s lifestyle. Any new dog, adult or puppy, should be the result of a careful and conscientious process, not an impulse! Owning a dog is a huge emotional, financial and time commitment, thus any person taking on this responsibility should be fully prepared.
A BIGGER problem with the Christmas pup is the fact that puppy mills will grind out thousands of puppies to meet the holiday demand and these are the types of pups you DON’T want!! These are the puppies you find in pet stores or online, and as cute as they may be, they’re often inbred and usually riddled with genetic health problems and behavioral difficulties.
No ethical breeder supports the idea of a dog as a surprise gift!! Reputable breeders carefully construct breeding programs to produce the healthiest, well conformed puppies in order to improve their breeds, not to meet holiday gift demands!! Ethical breeders won’t let their dogs end up in households where people do not understand the work and commitment involved in raising them.
Shelter workers also hate the idea of a Christmas puppy, as they well know many of them will end up right back in their shelters eventually because of health or behavior problems, or just because they had no idea how much work they are. How terribly unfair to the dog!!
If you and your family really want a dog, do your research 1st to find the BEST breed for your family, then spend the time and seek out reputable breeders for that perfect pup. Patience for the “right puppy” from the “right breeder” will pay off in the long run.
And if you prefer a rescue, find an experienced rescue group for the breed you desire. Reputable breeders know the dogs they sell and the people they are selling them to. And don’t worry if your dog comes to you in April instead of Christmas morning. He’ll be just as adorable without the tree & bow, and BEST of all, he’ll more than likely be a forever, loving addition to the family who does their homework and acquires their puppy in this manner!!