When considering adding a new member to your family, deciding between a puppy or an adult dog can create confusion. Puppies have a higher price tag, and their physical features and character may be uncertain as they mature. However, owners have the ability to guide their instruction and socialization from an early stage without past unfavorable occurrences.
Acquiring an older dog can be more affordable since they typically possess some degree of training, and there’s clear certainty regarding their physical characteristics and overall disposition. However, their previous medical conditions, life experiences, and background may remain unknown. Let’s delve into which option suits your preferences.
Puppy vs Dog: Early Life and History
Many individuals fail to consider the significance of a puppy or older dog’s early life and background, which can significantly influence their behavior as adults. Early life experiences have a crucial role in decreasing fear and aggression in dogs.
New homes for puppies are permitted once they reach 8 weeks old. If you have selected a dependable breeder and have visited your puppy frequently before taking them home, you will have a good understanding of their early life experiences. During the vital socialization phase, you will be present to help your puppy adjust to various situations and objects, decreasing the chance of fear and aggression in the future.
Though with elderly dogs, the situation may vary. There are numerous reasons why dogs are brought to rescue centers or shelters. Therefore, shelters may lack comprehensive information regarding the history of each dog.
Why This Can be Problematic
Several shelter dogs become available for adoption despite being blameless, and they can become affectionate and nurturing pets. However, some are surrendered due to behavior-related problems that develop from inadequate early socialization, insufficient training, or abusive treatment. If you lack information about an adult dog’s past, you will need to acknowledge the possibility of behavioral difficulties caused by prior life experiences. A more thorough explanation of this issue will be provided shortly.
If you raise a puppy, you will have greater authority over their initial encounters than you would with an older dog that has been raised by another person. Thus, learning as much as you can about the background of an older dog is crucial. Shelter personnel will assist you to the best of their abilities, but there is the possibility that they may be unaware of an older dog’s past experiences, making it more difficult to anticipate their reactions to various situations.
Puppy vs Dog Training
Training a puppy is a task that demands a lot of time. It encompasses basic obedience, housebreaking, and more intricate tricks that you may want to teach. Puppies acquire some rudimentary bite inhibition while still with their mother and littermates. Likewise, breeders may initiate potty training, though it is not a given. More often than not, puppies are brought home at eight weeks, requiring complete training from the beginning. This can be a taxing, stressful, and frustrating process full of setbacks.
An older dog typically has already undergone basic training such as potty training and can even grasp more advanced commands like ‘sit’ and ‘heel’. Therefore, if you lack the time to devote to a complete training regimen, an older dog may be the more suitable option. Whether you opt for a puppy or an older dog, an online dog training course can always enhance their training.
Puppy vs Dog Temperament
When deciding between a puppy and a dog, it is important to take into account their potential temperament, which may be influenced by their breed and early life experiences.
From the time they are brought home, puppies can be trained and socialized. Additionally, potential puppy owners can visit the breeder beforehand and evaluate the puppies’ parents to gain insight into how the pups may develop. Unfortunately, adult dogs in shelters and rescue organizations may not have had proper socialization to promote optimal behavior.
Although staff at shelters and rescue societies may have a preliminary understanding of a dog’s temperament during their stay, it is improbable that they will have insight into how the dog will react to external experiences beyond the shelter.
Socialization
Puppies ideally need to be socialized before they attain 16 weeks of age, and it is even better if this happens before 12 weeks of age. Despite the challenges posed by the unavailability of full vaccinations during this period, it is possible to socialize unvaccinated puppies by carrying them everywhere and avoiding direct interaction with other dogs that have not been vaccinated.
The process of socializing your puppy includes exposing them to a variety of unfamiliar situations, individuals, creatures, and objects in order to improve their self-assurance and limit the possibility of developing fear in the future. Scientific research has confirmed that correctly socializing your puppy can decrease the likelihood of behavioral issues emerging in adult dogs. However, it is more challenging to achieve this in older dogs once they have matured.
Consider Others in your Home
If you are thinking of adopting an older dog, keep in mind that improper socialization can cause them to display unexpected fear or aggression. Therefore, it is important to take into account all members of your household, including any pets you may have. Inquiring about the dog’s past interactions with people, children, other dogs, and even cats is essential. Informing the shelter about your own pets will allow them to assist you in finding a dog that is known to be comfortable and amicable with these companions.
If your older dog experiences behavioral problems due to a lack of socialization, it may require a significant amount of time to address. Therefore, ensure that you are prepared to allocate sufficient time to assist your dog if this problem arises.
Puppy vs Dog – Finding a Specific Breed
Your preference for a particular breed can determine your choice between a puppy and an adult dog. For instance, Labs are highly sought-after, which implies that there are numerous puppies and older dogs seeking homes. However, other purebred and crossbreed dogs are not as prevalent, making it more challenging to locate breeders or rescue dogs.
Several breeds that have anatomical abnormalities that affect their health are abandoned by their owners due to expensive veterinary bills and greater caretaking duties. Among these breeds are Pugs and French Bulldogs. In light of this, opting for a rescue dog among the numerous options available can be a good idea if you want a dog like these.
Waiting to obtain the breed you desire from a trustworthy breeder may be necessary if obtaining a puppy is urgent. Nevertheless, the delay is advantageous in terms of your future puppy’s well-being.
Puppy vs Dog – Which Should I Choose?
Many people struggle with deciding between getting a puppy or a dog, as the decision should be based on individual circumstances. Neither option is inherently superior or simpler than the other. Puppies need to undergo extensive training and socialization beginning from the moment they enter the household. Typically, rescue dogs have already been trained in these areas; however, they may have other problematic behaviors that necessitate significant time and effort to correct.
BONUS: Dog Training 101: How to Completely Train Your Dog
Do you feel prepared to initiate the training of your dog or puppy? Adequate training and integration within society are fundamental necessities for your canine companion. It is vital that you begin training your pet immediately to teach them how to sit, stay, come, go into their crate, and defecate outside. Surprisingly, you can undertake this task as a novice without any prior experience.
Dog training can be daunting, especially if you are a first-time dog owner. However, it is a substantial undertaking that can be accomplished step-by-step. To make the task seem less overwhelming, here is some information to help you begin your journey:
- Start a Dog Obedience Program : Learn how to set a basic foundation before you begin to train your dog.
- Train Your Dog Using Games : Training your dog should be fun! Everyone knows it’s easier to learn when you are having a good time, so try implementing some games into your dog training regimen.
- Six Weeks to a Well-Trained Dog : Using this schedule as a guide, you can teach your dog the basics in about six weeks.
- Positive Reinforcement : There are many different ways to train a dog, but most dog professionals agree that the positive way is the best for both the dog and trainer.
House Training and Crate Training
House training, also known as housebreaking or potty training, is essential for any dog owner. Unless your intention is to keep your dog outside, which is not advised, you must guide your dog on where to eliminate. To accomplish this, learning how to train your dog to use the appropriate area is a crucial initial step. Crate training can also be beneficial in this process, as well as various other aspects of training.
- Crate Training Dogs and Puppies : Here are the basics of training your dog or puppy to accept and even enjoy the crate. Not only will it help with housebreaking, but it will also give your dog a place of his own.
- How to House Train your Dog : When it comes down to it, house training is not that complicated, but this doesn’t mean it’s easy. Consistency and diligence are key during the housebreaking process.
- Submissive/Excitement Urination in Dogs : If your dog is still having accidents in the house, it may be more than a simple housebreaking issue. Your dog might urinate out of excitement or to express submissive behavior.
Leash Training Dogs and Puppies
It is essential for all dogs to be trained to walk on a leash. Not only are leash laws prevalent in most places, but there will also be moments where guaranteeing your dog’s safety necessitates their being on a leash. The process involves acquainting your pet with the leash and subsequently instructing them on how to walk effectively while being tethered, whether this is in close proximity to you as you cycle or otherwise. This technique, referred to as a loose leash walk, consolidates your dog’s understanding of not tugging or abruptly moving when on the leash. It enhances the experience for both you and your furry friend.
How To Socialize Dogs and Puppies
Teaching your puppy or adult dog to become accustomed to unfamiliar people, animals, and different environments is referred to as socialization. Dogs that have been socialized are more likely to avoid developing behavioral issues and are generally more well-received by others. Socialization can also be beneficial in preventing the emergence of anxieties and irrational fears.
In essence, making sure to socialize your dog or puppy will result in a dog that is happier and better behaved.
Clicker Training for Dogs
Clicker training is a frequently used type of constructive support that proves to be a straightforward and efficient technique for training canines. While it is acceptable to coach your pet without employing clicker training, a multitude of individuals perceive its advantages. Utilizing clicker training, you can conveniently instruct your dog various rudimentary and intricate orders and maneuvers. Mastering the art of clicker training your dog is a speedy and uncomplicated process.
Basic Commands and Fun Tricks
Every dog should be familiar with fundamental dog training commands and tricks such as come, speak, drop it, stay, and back up. These basic commands provide a sense of organization for your dog, aid in resolving typical canine behavior issues, and ensure your dog’s safety.
Advanced Dog Training
After your dog has learned all the fundamental skills, you can progress to more challenging tricks that will enhance their physical and mental well-being. Additionally, these activities can deepen the connection between you and your furry friend.
Always bear in mind that training is a continuous journey with no final destination. Therefore, it is crucial to continually engage in obedience training for the entirety of your dog’s life. Just as individuals who acquired a language at a tender age but stopped speaking that language can easily forget most of it when they grow older, the same applies to dogs – if you don’t use it, you lose it. Consistently practicing even the simplest commands and tricks will help keep them fresh in your dog’s memory. Furthermore, it’s an excellent opportunity to bond with your furry friend.
