Rehoming Lockdown Puppies

It’s only half way through January and I have already had so many calls from people struggling with their new puppies. I always say to people to think before they buy because owning a dog is such a big commitment.

I spoke to a lady this week with an 11 week old Labrador. She already has a busy house with kids that she is home schooling. Added to this, she has a two year old Cocker Spaniel. She told me this dog doesn’t get a walk everyday and has very little interaction. Of course, my question was, why get the Labrador then? I have empathy with families who are spending a lot of time at home and think a puppy will be a distraction. However, they take a lot of time. If you have another dog, you must walk the puppy separately while a bond and training is established. I had to tell this lady that I couldn’t train her puppy because she was unable to meet the very bare minimum of standards I set for dog welfare.

I have plenty of examples of where I have been asked to look at rehoming lockdown puppies. One family chose a German Shepherd but didn’t research the breed or see the parents. When they went back to the breeder with some questions, the dog they thought was the mother attacked the puppy, bringing into question whether she was actually the mother at all.

If you don’t have the time or knowledge, don’t get a puppy. They are not compatible with lockdown family life, with busy households where the usual routine is not being followed. Don’t create a problem for yourself and for the dog.

Posted: January 20, 2021