Find a good vet

When you are conducting research on the breed of dog you want, it is wise to ask a veterinarian about any problems that particular breed may carry. Some dogs may have problems in their joints or have a tendency to have eye problems. It is always good to be prepared. Talk to your veterinarian about hereditary problems or tendencies towards certain conditions in your favorite breeds.

Breeders, especially backyard breeder and pet shops highlight the good points of any particular breed. They will not want to bring up the problems; high occurrence of epilepsy in Belgium Tuvereens, deafness in Dalmatians, skin allergies in West Highland White Terriers, hip dysplasia in almost all the large breeds, progressive retinal atrophy in poodles, the high numbers of Boxers who develop cancer or the collie eye anomalies in Collies. Many small breeds such as Yorkies, Dachshunds, Schnauzers, Poodles and such will require regular dental hygiene as well as actual dental scaling and polishing by a veterinarian. The dental procedures for cleaning the teeth can run between $100 to $150 dollars.