As the holiday season approaches, ideas and thoughts begin to race around our heads — like a thoroughbred on a race track — as to what the perfect gift for our loved ones might be. In no way do I wish to dampen the holiday spirit but I am going to put on my Ebenezer Scrooge cap and strongly suggest that you NOT get a puppy to put under the tree.

Several years ago, more than I care to count, my family was gathering in Florida for the Christmas holiday. One of the errands I was charged with was to pick up my sister from the Tampa, Fla airport. Upon greeting her at the arrival gate, she presented me with an early Christmas gift which she identified as a pure bred German Shepherd dog with a big red bow attached to her collar. This pup bore no resemblance to a German Shepherd in any way, shape, or form.

My sister was convinced she had found the perfect gift: a new puppy, for her sister, who was in the market for a German Shepherd. Surprise! Think again. While this may have sounded like a dream come true, it was a really bad idea. We are all told that it's the thought that counts, but there are many reasons to avoid giving a new puppy or dog as a present. In reality, it's usually neither an ideal situation for the new owner or the dog.

The questions you need to ask prior to gifting a dog for the holidays are endless. First and foremost, does the person you are contemplating gifting the dog to even want a new dog? If so, is the recipient prepared for a new dog? If you know this person is a dog lover but does not already have one, there's most likely a good reason why. If they already own a dog, perhaps it's not the appropriate time to add another one. Maybe the person would rather choose the right dog for their lifestyle rather than having it chosen for them. From my personal experience it's safest to stick with gifts of the non-living and breathing variety. Christmas morning fantasies are soon superseded by reality.

Many children dream about the gift of a new dog or puppy-especially around the holidays. The letters to Santa, the pleading eyes, the promises of taking care of the new addition are endless. Unfortunately, most of these children do not understand that dog ownership comes with a tremendous amount of responsibility. Too often, the care and maintenance of the new dog will fall into the laps of mom or dad. If you are not the child's parent, then you have no right giving that child a new dog unless the parent(s) are on board. If you are a parent of the child or children, then acquiring the new pet should be a family decision. Discuss with your children what’s really involved with dog ownership and the responsibilities involved. Thoroughly examine and identify your household situation so you can select the right dog for your family.

So why are the holidays such a bad time to give a pet as a gift? Gifting a pet as a holiday present can be very bad timing. Let’s face it, holidays are hectic, and a new dog can get forgotten in the hustle and shuffle. The sudden responsibility of a new dog can feel like a burden rather than a gift. Often times, especially with children, the novelty of the new dog wears off and no one pays attention to the unfortunate dog after a few months goes by. Sadly, the puppy may soon be forgotten, like the new toys and video games, and find themselves in the local shelter or animal rescue.

If the recipient of the gift is actually in the position of welcoming and providing a new dog a loving and responsible home, there are still several things you can offer. If you truly want to surprise someone and you know they want a dog, gift them a book about dog ownership, or provide some top quality dog supplies. Offer to go with them on their quest to find the right dog. In this regard, you are offering to become part of the solution — not the problem. When the future owner of the dog is involved in the decision making process, it will be one step further in guaranteeing a successful dog/owner relationship.

If you and your family truly want a dog, take your time and choose wisely. There are plenty of avenues from which to obtain a puppy or dog: a reputable breeder, (yes, they do exist) an experienced rescue group, or an established animal shelter. Ask lots of questions about the dog or breed you are considering; expect the breeder or staff to ask you lots of questions too. If they don’t, be wary and a little suspicious.

A “backyard breeder” breeder or store clerk who hands you a dog in exchange for your check, stack of cash, or credit card is not your friend. Experienced dog folks know their dogs and have a good understanding of the people they are selling them too. Don’t worry if the dog comes to you in June rather than Christmas morning. It will be just as cute without the tree and red bow. Happy Holidays!!

Margaret A. Reed, PhD, is the co-author of the best-selling book, The Dogs of Camelot, an AKC dog show judge, thoroughbred racehorse owner, principal of Canine Training and Behavior Services, LLC, and serves on the board of Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine, James A Baker Institute for Animal Health.