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Making the Decision
Some food for thought for those of you considering a Rottweiler or Pit Bull.
- Did you know that many insurance companies have breed restrictions? Be sure to check with your agent before running out and getting your new Pit Bull or Rottweiler.
- Do you have a dog already? Great. If it's a male you're best off with a female (spayed of course!) and if you have a female be sure to get a male. Generally speaking opposite sexes have the least likelihood of having aggression issues with each other. Consult a trainer if you are unsure of how your dog will react to another dog joining the household.
- Getting a dog for the kid(s)? Be prepared to take the primary caregiver role. Kids often forget to feed or walk the dog and cannot be expected to handle veterinary care. If problems arise and you need training you'll need to take the lead and get help for Fido and your family.
- Dogs live from 9 to 14 years or older (if we're lucky). Where does that fit in with your lifestyle? If you aren't committed to your new puppy the way you would a child then you should wait. Foster for a rescue group to fill the void until you are 100% sure you are ready for a life-long commitment.
- Puppies are cute! But if you don't want a dog, then don't get a puppy. Puppies don't stay puppies for long and before you know it that 20 pound Rottweiler baby will be between 75 and 110 pounds (on average).
- Jumping is so sweet and pulling isn't a big deal.when your pup is small. Once full grown it's downright unhealthy for you and the dog. Get your pooch in obedience ASAP and start off on the right foot.
- Visit some adult dogs of the breed you are considering. Whether it's a pound, a friend or quality breeders you'll learn a lot. There are size differences, temperament differences and maybe what you THOUGHT was for you won't be the best choice. Interact with a minimum of 10 dogs of the breed you are interested in ranging from puppy to adult to senior. Make an informed decision.
- Did you think about budget? What about the unexpected problems? Hip dysplasia is fairly common. Can you afford or will you be able to find a way to pay for that surgery costing $1000 up to $5000? Sure there's pet insurance too. Financially dogs have the potential to break your bank account! We say the unconditional love is worth it though!
- Friends, family and neighbors can impact your delight with your dog. You may get some pretty harsh lectures about these breeds and many false accusations of what these breeds are like. You need a strong backbone to own a pit bull or a rottweiler. Neighbors can make your living situation miserable. Take the necessary steps to be sure you are really ready to tackle the task of Rottie or Pittie ownership before diving in head first.
- Time. We forget about this yet it's limited and we never seem to have enough. Be sure you have the time to take care of your dog. This is more than letting them out to use the bathroom and feed them. Training, loving, vet visits and grooming are all part of pet ownership. It's a relationship. We want you to be ready to commit.
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