There’s nothing quite like sitting in the middle of a litter of puppies and soaking up all the cuteness. Puppy breath, slobbery kisses, and those irresistible doe eyes—who could resist? But while it’s easy to get caught up in the moment, choosing the right puppy for your family takes more than letting one “pick you.” To help you make the best decision, here are five tips to guide you through the process:
1. Forget About “Pick of the Litter”
The idea of the “pick of the litter” is a bit of a myth. The best puppy for you depends on your home and lifestyle. Breeders may keep one or two puppies as “show picks” based on their conformation and structure, but these bold and outgoing puppies often require more training and management than the average family is ready for. The right puppy for your family will likely have a moderate, easygoing temperament that fits well into family life.
2. Let Temperament and Time Be Your Guide
Good breeders observe their puppies over time to understand their true temperaments. A puppy who seems sleepy during your visit might have been the most energetic one all week! Breeders typically evaluate temperament and potential between 7–8 weeks of age and use these insights to match puppies with families. Trust their expertise and long-term observations.
3. Trust the Breeder to Make the Match
Many experienced breeders prefer to match puppies with families themselves. Becky Dannaker of Nipntuck Labradors explains, “This takes the stress off everyone. Families can visit and enjoy the litter without worrying about choosing the perfect puppy. While families can give input, we use decades of experience to make the best match.” Breeders may avoid identifying puppies with collars early on to prevent bias or superficial preferences before evaluations are complete.
4. Beware of the “The Puppy Picked Me!” Myth
It’s easy to misinterpret a puppy’s behavior during your visit. A puppy climbing into your lap or chewing your shoe isn’t necessarily “picking” you. That puppy might be assertive and controlling access to you, or it could be shy and trying to escape the commotion. Puppy behavior during your visit is often more about their temperament than a magical connection. Keep emotions and imagination in check as you evaluate the litter.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Walk Away
Walking away from a litter of adorable puppies is hard—but sometimes it’s necessary. If you don’t feel confident about the match the breeder has chosen, discuss your concerns. If another puppy isn’t a better fit, it’s okay to wait for the next litter. It’s far better to wait for the right puppy than to bring home one that isn’t suited for your family or lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
Enjoy the excitement of choosing your new furry family member, but go in with a clear plan and an open mind. If you’re set on getting a puppy from a breeder, look for the most moderate, easygoing puppy in the litter—not the standout or the shyest. A puppy who’s balanced in temperament is more likely to be easy to train, travel with, and adapt to your daily life. And don’t forget to consider rescue puppies or older dogs—they might be the perfect fit for your family!
Need more advice on selecting the right dog or puppy? Stop by for a Complimentary Consultation—we’re here to help!
