How to Avoid 8 Common Pitfalls When Buying a Puppy?

How to Avoid 8 Common Pitfalls When Buying a Puppy?

Choosing a puppy is an exciting experience, but it’s important to make sure you’re choosing the right pup for your lifestyle and needs. it is important to remember that puppies, like any living creature, can fall ill or experience health issues. 

The 8 common pitfalls include checking the health of your puppy’s parents. It also includes puppies with closed nostrils, building eyes, long backs, deeply folded skin, corkscrew tails, banana or curved shape back, flat face and noisy breathing puppies.

As a responsible puppy buyer, it is important to be aware of the warning signs that may indicate a health problem in your new furry friend. Here are 8 factors to avoid while buying a puppy-

Give a Look at the Health of Your Puppy’s Parents 

How to Avoid 8 Common Pitfalls When Buying a Puppy?

When choosing a new puppy, it is important to consider the health of the puppy’s parents. 

This is because many health conditions, such as hip dysplasia, eye problems, and heart disease, are hereditary and can be passed down from generation to generation. 

By examining the health of the puppy’s parents, you can get a good idea of the puppy’s potential health and whether it is a good fit for your family.

Here are some key things to look for when examining the health of a puppy’s parents.

  • Genetic Testing: Many breeders now have their dogs genetically tested for common health issues. Ask the breeder if the parents have been tested for any genetic conditions that are common in their breed.
  • Temperament: The temperament of the parents can also give you an indication of the temperament of the puppy. Look for parents that are friendly, social, and well-behaved.
  • Exercise and Diet: A healthy diet and regular exercise are important for maintaining the health of any dog. 

Ask the breeder about the diet and exercise routine of the parents, as this can give you an indication of the potential health of the puppy.

Puppies with Closed Nostrils

How to Avoid 8 Common Pitfalls When Buying a Puppy?

One important health consideration that many people overlook is the puppy’s breathing ability. Some breeds of dogs are prone to respiratory issues, and puppies with closed nostrils may be at a higher risk for breathing problems. 

Here are some reasons why you should avoid buying puppies with closed nostrils.

  1. Breathing Difficulties: Puppies with closed nostrils may have difficulty breathing, especially during exercise or in hot weather. This can lead to panting, gasping, and other signs of respiratory distress.
  1. Health Problems: Puppies with closed nostrils may be more prone to respiratory infections, as their airways are more vulnerable to bacteria and viruses. They may also be at risk for overheating, which can cause heat stroke and other serious health problems.
  1. Poor Quality of Life: Puppies with closed nostrils may be unable to play and exercise like other puppies, which can lead to a poor quality of life. They may be unable to keep up with other dogs or engage in physical activities that are important for their health and well-being.

Puppies with Bulging Eyes

How to Avoid 8 Common Pitfalls When Buying a Puppy?

Many people are drawn to the cute and cuddly appearance of certain breeds. 

However, it’s important to remember that looks can be deceiving, and some physical characteristics may be indicative of underlying health problems. One such characteristic to be aware of is bulging eyes.

Bulging eyes are a common feature in certain dog breeds, such as Pugs, Boston Terriers, and Shih Tzus. 

While these breeds may be beloved by many for their unique appearance, it’s important to recognize that bulging eyes can cause a variety of health problems that can significantly impact a dog’s quality of life.

One of the primary issues associated with bulging eyes is the increased risk of eye injuries. Because the eyes protrude from the socket, they are more vulnerable to being scratched, poked, or injured in other ways. 

This can lead to a range of problems, including infections, ulcers, and even blindness in severe cases. 

Additionally, some dogs with bulging eyes are more prone to dry eye, which can be uncomfortable and potentially cause vision problems.

Puppies with Long Backs

Puppies with long backs are typically breeds that are prone to spinal problems. These breeds include Dachshunds, Corgis, and Basset Hounds. 

The long back of these breeds can put them at a higher risk for developing spinal injuries or conditions such as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). 

This is a serious condition that can cause nerve damage, pain, and in some cases, paralysis. The risk of developing IVDD is higher for dogs with long backs, as the length of their spine can put more pressure on their vertebrae and discs.

In addition to spinal problems, puppies with long backs can also experience other health issues. These include hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and respiratory problems. 

These conditions can cause discomfort and pain for the puppy and may require costly medical treatment.

Deeply Folded Skin Puppies 

Puppies with deeply folded skin are typically breeds that are known for their wrinkly appearance, such as Shar Peis, Bulldogs, and Mastiffs. 

While these breeds can be lovable and affectionate, their excessive skin folds can put them at risk for a number of health issues. 

The folds in their skin can create a warm, moist environment that is ideal for the growth of bacteria and yeast. This can lead to skin infections, which can cause discomfort, pain, and sometimes require medical treatment.

In addition to skin infections, puppies with deeply folded skin can also experience other health problems. These include ear infections, respiratory problems, and eye issues. 

The wrinkles around their face can put pressure on their eyes and can cause irritation and inflammation. 

Similarly, the skin folds around their nose can restrict their ability to breathe properly, which can lead to respiratory problems. 

The folds around their ears can also trap moisture, which can create an environment that is ideal for the growth of bacteria and yeast. This can lead to ear infections, which can be painful for the puppy and require medical treatment.

Corkscrew Tail Puppies 

Corkscrew tails are a genetic abnormality that affects certain breeds of dogs, such as the Bulldog, Pug, and Boston Terrier. This abnormality causes the tail to grow in a tightly twisted manner, resembling the shape of a corkscrew.

While a corkscrew tail may look cute, it can cause serious health issues for the dog. Here are some reasons why you should avoid puppies with corkscrew tails:

1: Spinal Problems:

Corkscrew tails are often accompanied by abnormalities in the spine. The vertebrae may be compressed or misaligned, leading to painful conditions such as spinal stenosis or intervertebral disc disease. These conditions can cause discomfort and make it difficult for the dog to move around.

2: Skin Infections:

The tightly coiled tail can trap dirt, debris, and moisture, leading to skin infections. The skin around the tail can become irritated, and the dog may scratch or bite at the area, leading to further problems.

3: Incontinence:

In some cases, dogs with corkscrew tails may also suffer from incontinence. The nerves that control the bladder and bowel may be affected by the spinal abnormalities, leading to issues with urination and defecation.

4: Difficulty Giving Birth:

Female dogs with corkscrew tails may have difficulty giving birth naturally. The tightly coiled tail can make it difficult for the puppies to move through the birth canal, and a c-section may be required to deliver the litter safely.

5: Pain and Discomfort:

Dogs with corkscrew tails may experience pain and discomfort throughout their lives. The abnormal tail can cause strain on the spine and surrounding muscles, leading to chronic pain and discomfort.

Puppies with’ banana or curved ‘shape backs 

If a puppy has such a physical characteristic, it’s important to consider the potential health problems that they may develop in the future. These can include chronic pain, mobility issues, and other complications that can affect their quality of life. 

It’s also possible that these health problems could require expensive medical treatment or surgeries, which can be financially burdensome for pet owners.

Therefore, it’s generally recommended to avoid purchasing puppies with any physical abnormalities or health issues, including those with banana-shaped backs. 

Instead, it’s best to look for puppies that are healthy and free of any known health problems, and to adopt from a reputable breeder or animal shelter that prioritizes the health and well-being of their animals.

Flat face puppies 

For many people, puppies with flat faces, such as Pugs, French Bulldogs, and Bulldogs, are irresistibly cute. However, as appealing as they may seem, buying a puppy with a flat face can come with significant risks and ethical concerns. 

Here are some reasons why you should avoid buying puppies with flat faces.

1: Health problems

Breeds with flat faces, also known as brachycephalic breeds, have a genetic predisposition for a range of health problems. 

Their shortened snouts and other facial characteristics can cause breathing difficulties, heat intolerance, dental problems, and eye issues, among other conditions. 

These dogs are also more prone to respiratory infections, which can quickly escalate to life-threatening situations.

2: Emotional distress

Aside from physical health issues, flat-faced dogs can experience emotional distress. Their breathing difficulties can cause anxiety and stress, leading to a reduced quality of life. 

Additionally, some flat-faced breeds may experience difficulty eating and drinking, leading to further discomfort and stress.

3: High Vet Bills

As a result of their predisposition to health issues, puppies with flat faces often require more veterinary care than other breeds. 

The cost of treatment can add up quickly, making them more expensive to care for than other dogs. 

This can include surgeries to address respiratory issues, dental care, and medication for infections and other conditions.

Puppies who have Noisy Breathing 

Some puppies may have a noisy breathing condition, which can be a cause for concern. While noisy breathing in puppies is not always indicative of a serious health issue, it is essential to consider the potential risks and complications that may arise.

One of the main reasons to avoid buying puppies with noisy breathing is their potential health issues. Noisy breathing can be a symptom of several underlying health conditions, such as respiratory infections, allergies, asthma, or heart problems. 

These conditions can lead to significant complications and require constant medical attention and care. 

Additionally, noisy breathing can affect the puppy’s quality of life, causing discomfort, distress, and difficulty breathing. 

As a responsible pet owner, it is crucial to consider the potential medical costs and time commitment necessary to manage these health conditions.

Furthermore, puppies with noisy breathing may be more challenging to train and socialize. Noisy breathing can affect a puppy’s ability to focus and concentrate, which can impede their training and obedience.

Final Thoughts?

This article provides helpful information for anyone who is considering buying a puppy. It outlines eight common pitfalls people may encounter when purchasing a puppy and offers tips on avoiding them. 

Some key points include researching the breed you’re interested in, finding a reputable breeder or rescue organization, and considering the long-term costs and responsibilities of owning a dog.

Following this article’s advice, potential puppy buyers can make informed decisions to help them find a healthy, happy puppy and provide it with a loving home. 

Additionally, they will support ethical breeding practices and helping to reduce the number of dogs in shelters.

It’s important to remember that bringing a puppy into your home is a big responsibility and requires careful consideration and planning. 

Taking the time to research and make informed decisions will help ensure a successful and fulfilling relationship with your new furry friend.

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