Getting a Puppy for Christmas

There was an article in our local newspaper today that addressed the issue of parents finally caving and getting a puppy (or a kitten) for the holidays.  The author was a vetrinarian arguing towards the idea.  She said that it simply didn't matter when one got a puppy or a kitten; it would still chew and eat miscellaneous items, still relieve itself in your house, and still need constant care.  The conclusion was that it didn't matter what time you added a puppy or kitten to your house.  It was going to be difficult.  While this is, I believe, untrue, I do think that this woman has a legitamite point when she says that puppies and kittens go to homes where the people aren't ready for them all year long.  But right after I read her article, I looked at the classifieds selling litters of puppies, just to see how many had been born for Christmas.  About 15 out of 24 mentioned Christmas in one of the following ways:

"Will be ready for Christmas"

"Makes the perfect Christmas gift"

"Will hold for X-mas"

Now, in my home, we do not have little children any longer, but with three dogs who love to unwrap gifts, I am going to assume that Christmas at my house is somewhat equal to the excitement Christmas brings in other homes.

It begins with the first present.  Hunter, traditionally, relieves that one of its wrapping.  And then another, and then another.  And before you know it all the dogs are simultaneously unwrapping presents.  And then someone tries to eat something.  And finally there is a large chase around our house after the dog who has the something.

That is, in a nutshell, a very excitable Christmas.  Our family would never bring a puppy into that environment, because puppies need stable energy to develop correctly.  At most houses, family, food, presents, and excitement are abundant.  These elemants are not conducive to a puppy's happiness, and therefore make the holidays generally not a good time to bring him or her into your house.

PS
Potty training in the cold and ice is not the most enjoyable experience in the entire world.  Puppies need to go out about ever 15-30 minutes.  That equals a whole lot of cold.