5 Steps to Finding the Right Dog for Your Family
Over two million puppies are sold each year from puppy mills in the United States. Despite good intentions, many people unknowingly support puppy mills because they don’t know how to recognize red flags when searching for a dog. If you’re thinking about adding a new dog to your family, these 5 steps will help you make an informed decision.
Step 1: Decide If a Puppy Is Right for You
Puppies are adorable, but they require significant time and attention—much like a human baby. Ask yourself:
✅ Do I have time for potty training and late-night bathroom breaks?
✅ Am I prepared to teach manners and socialization for a well-adjusted dog?
✅ Can I commit to daily exercise, training, and care for the next 10–15 years?
If you’re unsure, consider adopting an older dog from a shelter or rescue—many are already house-trained and socialized!
Step 2: Choose the Right Breed for Your Lifestyle
Not all breeds are a good fit for every household. Before choosing a breed, research:
🐕 Energy levels – Do you have the time and space for a high-energy dog like a Husky?
🏡 Living environment – Do you need a breed suited for an apartment or a large yard?
👨👩👧 Family dynamics – Some breeds are better suited for homes with children or other pets.
If you’re open to a mixed breed, shelters and rescues are overflowing with dogs and puppies of all breeds and mixes. A Lab mix, for example, often has the same lovable traits as a purebred Lab!
Step 3: Search Shelters & Rescues First
Thousands of purebred and mixed breed dogs are waiting for homes in shelters and rescues. Before turning to a breeder:
📍 Visit Petfinder.com to search for dogs in your area.
🐾 Look for breed-specific rescues—nearly every breed has a dedicated rescue group.
🏡 Consider adopting a puppy or adult dog—rescues have both!
Adopting saves lives.
Step 4: Research Breeders Carefully
If adoption isn’t an option, make sure you’re choosing a responsible breeder and know what red flags to look for:
✅ Contact the breed club for breeder recommendations.
✅ Use resources like “Rate Your Dog Breeder” to read reviews on breeders.
✅ Avoid breeders with multiple litters available—this is a red flag for commercial breeding.
✅ Never buy from a breeder who won’t let you meet the mother dog—puppy mills often hide their breeding conditions.
✅ If a breeder has a USDA license, they are a high-volume commercial breeder (puppy mill).
A reputable breeder may have a waiting list, require a contract, and perform health testing on their dogs. If a breeder is only concerned about money and not the puppy’s future, walk away.
Step 5: Be Patient & Make an Informed Decision
Finding a dog takes time, but rushing the process can lead to heartbreak. Puppy mills prioritize profit over health, leading to:
🚨 Poor breeding practices result in genetic diseases and congenital defects and possible heartbreak for you.
💔 Sick puppies that may require extensive vet care and high medical bills.
😢 Emotional distress when puppies are born in puppy mills cause health or behavioral issues that last the dogs lifetime.
Treat finding a puppy like the biggest purchase you’ll ever make—because it is! Don’t fall for the first cute face you see.
🐾 Help End Puppy Mills – Share This Message!
Every time someone chooses adoption or an ethical breeder, they reduce demand for puppy mills. Share to educate others, change minds, and help save a rescue dog’s life! ❤️🐶