Should you adopt a puppy or an adult?
BONDING:
A lot of people believe BONDING can only occur with a baby. This is simply not true. An AmStaff or Stafford will bond fiercely with whomever they live with for three consecutive months. Both breeds ADORE people and form attachments very easily.
TRAINING:
Some people think it's easier for a puppy to learn rules and routines. It's
actually easier for one over 12 months to figure this out because they already have the frameworks in place. It takes them three weeks to learn a new routine. Regardless of age, babies, older puppies, young adults, and adults all need you to CONSISTENTLY teach and reinforce all your rules.
BAD HABITS:
What if the older puppy/dog picked up bad habits in their previous home? DOMINANCE IS PERSONAL, if you show the dog the rules for YOUR house and consistently enforce them, any formerly acquired bad habits will not matter.
BABIES!
The only actual reason to go with a puppy is to enjoy their babyhood. Please remember they ARE BABIES! They need constant supervision, frequent potty breaks, frequent meals, a crate to safely rest in, extensive training and socialization, and lots of physical and mental stimulation. They are A LOT OF WORK. If you don’t have the time or energy to devote to them, please do not get a puppy.
PROS FOR ADULTS:
RETIRED SHOW DOGS have traveled extensively, spent many hours crated, encounter many barking dogs of all sizes and coats, and have had tons of strangers stare at and touch them. They are relaxed in noisy and boisterous environments. They potty on leash, on gravel, on grass, on concrete, and in pens. They are used to getting their nails trimmed and being bathed. They make EXCELLENT PETS!
MORE PROS FOR ADULTS:
Additionally, older dogs tend to be more conscientious of their bodies and power when interacting with children. PUPPIES SEE KIDS AS PEERS and are much more likely to try to gain dominance over them through rough play as they enter adolescence.
HONEST SELF REFLECTION
:
When you are considering adding to your family, please take into account the amount of time and energy you have available, your family makeup, your experience raising puppies/dogs, and what exactly you need your dog to do. And, be sure to communicate all of this to your breeder. It is their job to point you to the right puppy/dog for you and your lifestyle.
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