Dog Trainer Reveals Six Puppy Types She’d Avoid

Jill O’Sullivan, a seasoned dog trainer and behaviorist from Busy Bee Dog Training and Behavior, recently shared her insights on this topic.

She outlined six types of puppies she would personally avoid, aiming to guide potential dog owners in making informed choices.​

1. Puppies from Non-Health-Tested Parents

Jill emphasizes the importance of health screenings for breeding dogs.

She advises against selecting puppies whose parents haven’t undergone essential health tests, including DNA analyses and assessments for hip, elbow, and patella issues.

This precaution helps reduce the risk of inheriting genetic health problems.​

2. Puppies with Temperament Concerns in Their Lineage

The behavior of a puppy’s parents can be indicative of the puppy’s future temperament.

Jill recommends steering clear of puppies whose parents exhibit undesirable behaviors or characteristics that don’t align with what you’re seeking in a pet.​

3. Puppies from Poorly Socialized Litters

Early socialization is crucial for a puppy’s development.

Jill advises avoiding puppies from breeders who don’t prioritize proper socialization before the puppies reach eight weeks of age.

Early exposure to various environments and experiences can lead to a well-adjusted adult dog.​

4. Puppies Not Properly Weaned

Proper weaning is essential for a puppy’s health and development.

Jill cautions against adopting puppies that haven’t been appropriately weaned from their mothers by eight weeks old, as this can lead to nutritional and behavioral issues.​

5. Puppies with Traits Unsuitable for Your Lifestyle

It’s vital to choose a breed or mix whose characteristics align with your living situation and activity level.

Jill suggests avoiding breeds with common traits that might not suit your lifestyle, health, or environment.

For instance, high-energy breeds may not be ideal for someone with a sedentary lifestyle.​

6. Puppies Prone to Health Issues Due to Physical Traits

Certain breeds are predisposed to health problems because of their physical characteristics.

Jill recommends being cautious about adopting puppies from breeds with a high likelihood of health issues related to their appearance, as this can lead to increased veterinary costs and emotional strain.​

Jill concludes by acknowledging that while no breed is inherently wrong, many end up in unsuitable homes.

She emphasizes the importance of thorough research and careful consideration when choosing a puppy to ensure a harmonious match for both the owner and the dog.

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