For most people, it’s a very tough dilemma. On one hand, you have beautiful and healthy purebreds. On the other, there are just as beautiful pets but without a home, waiting for that fateful day in the shelter, when someone is going to pick them up. But both purebreds and shelter dogs can be equally loving, cute, happy and fit in with your family right away. So, should you buy from a breeder or adopt from a shelter? Let’s look at the pros and cons of both scenarios and find out.
Buying from a breeder
Pros
- Documents and medical history
- Can compete in shows
- Could provide a breeding opportunity for you in the future
Cons
- Can cost thousands of $
- Might have some inherited health issues
- Lifespans aren’t always super-long
Overview
When you get a dog from a breeder, you can always make the informed decision on getting a dog. You will always know what you are getting and can sometimes even pick the most appropriate price for the dog, be choosy about the gender, age, etc. It’s easier to pick out the ‘perfect’ dog so-to speak. You can genuinely realise the dream of owning a Shepherd, a Rottweiler, a Beagle, etc.
However, the major downside is that you will likely need to spend four-figure sums (sometimes even more) to get what you’re looking for. Even when you’re not looking to purchase a show dog, you will have to adjust to show dog-level prices which can definitely adjust your spending plans for the foreseeable future.
On the plus side, breeders usually have contacts for trainers or could give you guidance on how to properly raise your pet so that he or she becomes a model dog.
Furthermore, you can’t cut any corners because the purebred pup requires more delicate care. Its greatest assets are its heritage and looks. The latter needs to be taken care of. This is why you have to spend a little bit of cash to get appropriate grooming equipment. A professional dog nail grinder, brushes, pet hair remover for tangles, an orthopedic dog bed (if the breed is known to suffer joint or bone problems), etc.
Purebreds are recommended for more experienced owners or for people who definitely know what they’re looking for. Shorter lifespans are definitely something worth noting as well.
All things considered, getting a purebred hovers on the edge of adoption and investment.
Adopting from a shelter
Pros
- You give a home to a pet that was unwanted
- Longer lifespans
- Can be even more rewarding
- Usually free
Cons
- No medical history
- Usually harder to train
- Some basic needs might not be covered (hygiene, health, etc.)
Overview
Adopting a pet might seem like the more humane thing to do, but it shouldn’t be looked at in such a way. Adoption is great, but the person adopting undertakes much more risk than when buying from a breeder. Even though mixed breeds and mutts usually live longer, they are barkers and harder to train. These character traits make them a much poorer choice for when you’re living in a small apartment.
Furthermore, you have no medical history and might need to take your dog to the vet immediately, to get some basic needs, covered. While shelters take care of most basic things, it isn’t a guarantee.
Grooming can be less demanding than with a purebred. That is a plus to most people. Spending is limited and since they’re more rugged and tough dogs, you don’t need to spend as much money on grooming equipment. The same applies to food, no supplements or other additives are usually needed because regular dogs are just much less needy.
Besides, they are mostly hardwired to be good guard dogs. You will rarely see a street dog that wouldn’t be at least above average at protecting. They’re avid barkers and that’s a habit which is hard to contain, meaning trouble for neighbours and you, if it happens during nap time.
Finally, a dog from a shelter can be a great first-time experience if you just want a dog, and don’t want to get into too much spending or get fussed with grooming and other tedious tasks. They will live longer and be great companions, just without any document to prove their heritage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both choices have very strong pros and cons. Whichever way you decide to go, just try to be the best pet owner that you can. Make sure to tend to their needs, spend enough time with them and leave your heart and home open. Regardless of whether you’ll buy or adopt, make sure to have the pet feeling at home as soon as possible. If you want relevant, helpful and truly professional pet grooming and care tips, follow this site to know more.
