Experts say you should not buy a puppy as a gift. Puppies should be picked out by the people who are going to raise them, to maximize the bond between dog and owner.
Instructions
1. Consider why you are buying a puppy as a gift. If a responsible adult has been talking about getting a dog for months, ask yourself why that person never has actually made the purchase. Perhaps he really doesn't want a puppy as much as he says he does. Perhaps he is not ready for the responsibility. Perhaps he is away from home too much.
2. Avoid buying a puppy as a gift for a child. The best way to bring a puppy into the family is for the family to pick out the puppy together.
3. Think before buying a puppy around the holidays or birthdays. There is so much going on and so much commotion that a new puppy is apt to get lost in the hubbub.
4. Understand that puppies are lovable and adorable, but they need daily exercise, regular veterinary care, and lots of attention.
5. Consider what your recipient would do if he had a puppy and wanted to take a vacation. Does your recipient love to travel? Does he take a lot of trips? Is he gone overnight a good bit? If so, he is not a good candidate for owning a puppy.
6. Give a gift certificate for a puppy. Let the recipient pick out his own puppy when he feels ready for the responsibility.
7. Opt for buying a dog video or dog book for someone who wants a puppy. Give him an online link so he can play with a virtual dog at virtualdog.com. Or, buy her a Tamagotchi or Giga Pet toy to test their willingness to take care of a new puppy.
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