Caring of a dog starts with the selection of a suitable breed or mixed-breed dog that will fit comfortably into the home. Sedentary individuals should select one of the medium-small or toy breeds. People who are confirmed outdoor types will be happier with a medium or large dog or one of the sporting varieties The buyer should select a sleek, well-fed puppy with a clean coat; that is, one with no staining around the eyes, anus, or urinary orifice. Puppies under 4 months of age should be alert, active, and ready to romp. Avoid shy or withdrawn puppies because they may either by sick or very timid.

The good breeder should have a record of any vaccinations the puppy has received, advice on his diet, and information regarding follow-up vaccinations or worming. He will allow the puppy to be examined by a private veterinarian of the buyer's choice and to be returned should the veterinarian's findings indicated that the puppy is unfit.

New Puppy. A newly acquired puppy should be given quiet sleeping quarters. The site should be comfortably warm and comfortable. A large carton or wooden box lined with old newspaper is enough.

Vaccination. Puppies require vaccination against distemper, hepatitis, and leptospirosis, which can be started during the first trip to the veterinarian. Worming is best left to the veterinarian. If possible the owner should bring a stool specimen to the doctor at the first visit. The stool specimen may present round-worms, hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms, either singly or in combination, and the specimen can pinpoint which of these parasites the puppy is harboring. If the puppy has fleas, the veterinarian can give the owner advice and the safest product to use to remove it, because some sprays or powders can be very toxic to young puppies if improperly applied or used. They can also be hazardous to humans if they are inhaled excessively.

Grooming. All dogs needs a bath, but with regular and proper brushing the bathing (except for medical reasons) may be kept to a minimum. Dogs with heavy bangs and beards need special attention. The trimming of both bangs and beards is medically advisable. Many of these dogs become victims of eye infections because the owners do not see the eyes to notice accumulations of discharges and dirt. The dog often gets into accidents because they do not see clearly. The beards is frequently become saturated with saliva and food juices, which may result in bad breath and fungus infections around the lips and mouth.