(1) If the gift is for a child, did you check with the parents to see if they agree with having a puppy? The age of the child is very important. Many people think that children and pets are a natural combination, but if the child is not old enough to have the total responsibility of caring for the pet will the parents willingly participate in the continual need for the care, exercise and medical attention which goes along with having a puppy?

(2) Do you know which breed would be appropriate for the family and heir lifestyle? A dog’s presence in a home unsuitable for its needs can create an unhappy situation for the family and the dog. Some breeds need more exercise than others, so it is better to look around, read and decide on a dog after research and discussion with the family rather than a spur of the moment puppy “gift.”

(3) Will the puppy have the proper care such as housekeeping, food, shelter, exercise and training? Will the parent expect the child to take total care of the puppy, teaching responsibility for the child, o will the puppy be a family project without squabbles about “whose turn it is to walk the dog” on a cold, wintry night?

(4) Can the family afford the cost of medical care? Veterinarian bills add up each year with vaccinations, boosters, and other situations in which the dog may require medical attention. The dog, also, will need basic obedience training, which is another expense.

(5) Will the animal be spayed or neutered to prevent unwanted dogs from being born?

(6) A pet is an animal with a lifetime commitment by the owner. Puppies are cute and cuddly, but grow up very quickly. Time is needed to cope with the “terrible teens,” which is usually between eight and 18 months in a dog’s life. Do the owners have the time and will they put in the effort needed for this kind of commitment?

If you answered no to any of these questions, seriously reconsider giving a puppy at Christmas … or at any other time of the year. However, if you answered yes to the questions then discuss the gift with the parents and child. Preparations should be made ahead of time so that there will not be too much excitement for the puppy.

I would suggest picking up a puppy a few weeks before or after Christmas. The holiday excitement can be too much for a puppy and he might be frightened or overly active. Puppies need a quiet place to rest, otherwise activities can be too overwhelming.

Remember, in the long run the animal is the loser is things don’t work out.