CHESAPEAKE BAY RETRIEVERS

Puppy or older dog?

There are so many variables, it is hard to give concise answers to this question. Your lifestyle, experience with dogs and your expectations; The age of the pup or dog, its previous history, amount of training, personality; All are important in making an informed choice.

Young puppies, pros.

Puppies are adorable-even family members who are nervous with dogs tend to like a puppy
Puppies are blank slates-they have no engrained habits. They can be molded by their owners.
Puppies are playful- always ready for a walk or a game.
Puppies are less expensive than a trained dog.

Young puppies, cons

Puppies are adorable- they are also time consuming.
Puppies are blank slates- they need training both for housebreaking and obedience. If they are not trained, they become problem dogs that wind up unwanted.
Puppies need to be fed and exercised frequently.
Small pups are not physically able to hold urine or stool are long periods.
Young pups are more susceptible to disease.

Older pups, 3 to 8 months

An older pup can be a very good choice for the busy owner, or it can be a disaster. It all depends on how the pup has been raised.

Older pup, pros.

Pysically able to "hold it" for longer periods.
Often partially or fully house/crate trained.
Should understand basic obedience commands.
Might be well started in field work.
If raised by an experienced person, dominance issues will be dealt with. At least, a good foundation will be laid for dealing with this behaviour.

Older pup, cons

May not be used to a home situation.
Might not have enough socialization. (Kennel shy)
If no training has been done, the pup/dog will have more difficulty learning "how to learn"
An older dog might have behavior problems. This should be fully discussed with the seller.

Adult dogs

Each is an individual and adult dogs can range from untrained, confirmed biters or bolters to wonderful dogs that have lost their original homes through divorce or illness. Fully trained dogs that have not worked out in a breeding program are sometimes available for moderate prices.

You must do careful research and ask a lot of questions before buying or rescuing an older dog. There are treasures out there but also dogs that can never be rehabilitated.