How a protection dog purchase unfolds for a Wisconsin buyer

1. Write the job descriptionIs it a family dog with a deterrent presence, a rural property watch dog or something else? Say who lives in the house.
2. Check your own constraintsRead the statutes page, your lease or association rules and your insurer's answer first.
3. Find professionals, pluralTalk to more than one. K9PN can refer your request, and you are free to compare others.
4. Plan the driveWisconsin is wide and some sellers are out of state. Budget a day for an in-person visit and expect to travel in winter.
5. Meet the dog and watch it workSee control, recall and calm behavior around strangers, ideally in weather like your own.
6. Read the contractIt should name the dog, describe its training, spell out health records and explain what happens if the match fails.
7. Prepare the houseA warm sleeping spot, a safe yard gate, a leash routine for icy mornings and a vet appointment.

Ask the seller how the dog travels. A dog that has never ridden in a vehicle for hours will need practice. Never leave it alone in a cold car, the humane society warns.