A new puppy for Christmas? Make sure you are ready for various challenges

Ask the Vet

Q: My family has finally decided that we are ready for a puppy, but I have heard some negativity about puppies at Christmastime.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the matter.



A: The best time to bring a pet into a family is different for everyone. If the whole family is ready, I do have a few thoughts:

If you are wanting a puppy at Christmas, make sure you have ample time.

Many people are still working from home during the pandemic, so now might be the ideal time. It is best if you are going to be in town and not traveling for the holidays. Being at home to bond with your new puppy and establish a daily routine are important for all of you.

It can be difficult to travel with a young puppy, not to mention it could be frightening to him/her. It could also slow down any progress being made regarding house-training.

I have some clients wait until spring to get a puppy, simply because of the weather. It can be difficult to house-train a puppy if we have a cold, snowy winter, although certainly this can vary.

Important considerations before choosing a particular breed include size, temperament, hair coat and activity level. Consider adopting a puppy or adult dog from an animal shelter or rescue group.

Pet adoptions can be a wonderful life lesson that even young children are capable of understanding. Regardless of where your new pet comes from, plan ahead to have everything ready before he/she arrives.

Some of the negative connotations you may have heard likely revolve around the spontaneity of getting a puppy at Christmas, only to later discover that you really aren’t ready.

If your family has been talking about getting a puppy and are now all in agreement, then it sounds like this will be a Merry Christmas at your house!



If you have questions about your pet, you many e-mail Dr. Myers at lenoircityac@gmail.com