At the end of Disney’s Toy Story, Woody and Buzz nervously await the Sergeant’s report on what Andy is getting for Christmas. Toying with Buzz’s anxiety Woody asks, “Buzz, what could Andy possibly get that is worse than you?” To which Andy announces, “Wow! It’s a puppy!” Nervous laughter from both toys ends the scene and pretty much sums up what most toys are probably feeling when in that situation – nervous and a little stressed. The emotion surrounding bringing an animal home for the holidays isn’t just a comical scene in a movie.

When people embark on dog ownership over the holidays, feelings of stress, agitation, and frustration are pretty common. So what brings this on? Well, people usually have a picturesque idea of the kids unwrapping that fluffy pup, but that’s quickly erased with the reality of actually raising a dog. There is the constant crying at night (you and the puppy’s) or having to get up every two hours to let the puppy outside to do its business or having to pick up after the pup’s mess because you didn’t get up in time. Then there’s the unexpected bite marks noticed on your oak table, which must have happened when the kids left the pup unsupervised, coupled with the incessant barking at and jumping on guests. If you have decided to make the life-altering decision to bring a puppy home for the holidays, here’s some tips to keep you sane:

Bringing the pup home responsibly 

Buy from a quality breeder
It is important to find a breeder with experience, knowledge, and references from local vets. Research professionals who have been breeding for years and are knowledgeable about their breed. As a service, these professionals also perform genetic testing such as OFA hips/Elbows and eye tests. A good breeder offers some kind of contract because they stand behind and are passionate about the dogs they breed. 

Visit the kennel several times
Look for a kennel that is clean and organized. Determine if the parents and puppies are healthy and treated fairly. Have the breeders show their AKC papers and pedigree and OFA papers for the Sire, male parent, and Dam, female parent. 

Meet the puppy’s parents
If possible, meet the Sire and Dam. Don’t panic if the breeder doesn’t own the Sire, as this is often the case. Instead, ask for pictures, question his temperament, and visit with the Dam.   

Research the breed and ask questions
Remember that breeders are there to help ensure the temperament of the dog is excellent for your household. If applicable, ask if the dog is good around people, children, and other animals. When possible wait seven weeks after birth to pick out your pup because personalities change rapidly within the first weeks. 

Perform a temperament test
Volhard’s aptitude testing is a great test to use. If you are unsure of what to look for, ask a vet or dog expert to help assess the animal. 

Be prepared
Purchase a kennel, make sure the puppy has its puppy shots, and buy a bag of the recommended puppy food. 

Set ground rules and stick to them
Avoid creating separation anxiety in your dog by having the dog sleep in a crate instead of in your bed. This will encourage the dog to bond with the crate. Be warned: Puppies will cry for the first week no matter where they sleep. 

Clean the house
The safety of the puppy should be number one. Remove all toxic plants, like poinsettia, Holly and Mistletoes. Ensure that the pup can’t eat the tinsel or chocolate as it can also be deadly. 

Plan around the pup
You will have to take the puppy with you to a relative’s house as kennels are usually full over the holidays and it is not recommended to take the pup anywhere if it is not housebroken. When the puppy is not being played with or watched, it should be placed in the crate without the collar on.  

Be prepared to train on day one
Puppies love to chew, scratch, nip and jump. Start the housebreaking training right away.  

Other helpful things 

Avoid Puppy Mills that can only produce puppies on demand
Puppy mills often employ multiple breeders that tend to want to meet in less than ideal pick up/drop off points. Buyer beware: No quality breeder will encourage you to meet in a parking lot.   

Cuteness wears off ... fast
ids who beg for the furry companion usually have to have roles and responsibilities delegated and fully enforced before the arrival of the pup. 

Plan for vet bills and other expenses
If a puppy is purchased over the holiday, plan a visit to the vet ahead of time so the expense associated with shots and wellness checks can be reduced.