I told you I would update you with our puppy situation and yes it is a little later than last Saturday but better late than never.

We found our pretty girl, the sweetest little bundle of joy!

Yukiko!

She is currently 6 weeks old and will be with us in 2 weeks time.
If you are wondering what breed she is, well she is an american staffy, and the parents have such great temperament, they are sweet, playful, full of energy but calm at the same time!
American Staffordshire Terrier are very closely related to Pitbulls, but unlike them, Staffies are not illegal in Australia.

We are super excited to get everything ready for her. We have already collected bits and pieces. We have ordered a crate, a bed, collar, leash, a toy and a doggy bags holder. We have to make sure our fence is fully "staffy proof" and the house is ready to be her new home ❤
Yukiko is a Japanese name and it means happiness and snow. Both Dale and I love Japanese culture and since we couldn't decide on a simple English name, we went for a Japanese one.

Adopting a puppy is a very serious decision and we had made sure we were ready to give her our time, out attentions and our love.

• It is very important to make sure that the breeder is first of all a nice person, (after all you are getting a puppy that is with his 24/7 during his first 2 months of life)
• Make sure you to do your research! Do you want a small dog or large dog? Are you OK with hair shedding? Do you really want that dog even if it is a high maintenance dog? Are you willing to walk him every day? Are you going to take care of him for 15 years or so?
• Always ask to see the parents, often the puppy will look similar to the parents when fully grown and it is important that you like the parents as much as the puppy
• If you have decided to buy, have a look around and compare prices, breeds, mixes, breeders and find out what suits your budget and your family
• Do not think that a pure breed is the best choice. Mixes are almost always less inclined to genetic problems, such as muscular pain, cancers, skin problems ecc
• After you have chosen your puppy, make sure you get pet insurance! It might be worth splurging on pet insurance now rather than paying a lot of money later when your doggy needs some special care
• Always look for doggies at the pound first! Is there any you like? Remember, those dogs are always in need of a good home, but make sure to check their background and if the dog can be suitable for your home
• Do you have enough money to care for a puppy? Remember that a dog will need to be fed everyday and might need to be taken to the vet every now and then
• We have decided not to feed Yukiko with dry food, which means she will only have leftovers from meat, mince, meat pieces, bones ecc

If you are thinking of getting an adorable little puppy, please remember that they will need your patience, they will not always be the cutest, especially when they will make mess, rip your favorite shoes or go to the toilet on your fluffy rug. Puppies grow into adult dogs, they get old and might not look as cute once they are fully grown.
Please think of all this factors before adopting or buying a dog.

Have you asked yourself:

• Do I want a puppy or an adult dog?
• Can I cover all the financial costs of owning a dog, beyond just the purchase price, including food, bedding, toys and veterinary check-ups and treatment including emergencies?
• Is my home safe, secure and suitable for a dog?
• Do I have time to train and socialise a dog?
• Will I be able to provide them with enough company so they don’t get lonely or bored? A dog that doesn’t receive enough attention is unlikely to become a social and well-behaved pet.
• Do I have time to walk and play with a dog every day?
• Am I ready to make a 15-year commitment?

You can find this and other very useful information on how to be smart when adopting\buying a dog or puppy at: rspcapuppyguide.com.au

Lots of love x
Sharon