If you are considering a dog advertised in a newspaper ad or an online service, expect to get checked out thoroughly. Be glad the breeders want to be sure you’ll provide a good home rather than using their dogs for fighting or as bait dogs in the fighting rings. Beware the hidden meaning behind advertising phrases. “Friendly” could mean a dog who is undisciplined, destructive and overbearing. “Protective” or “Good Watchdog” could mean aggressive and prone to snapping. Those advertising for “Serious inquiries only” are looking to place their dogs in responsible homes. Whatever you do, check out the dog carefully and observe other dogs and the human family in the household to provide clues on how your dog was socialized. Ask for a health guarantee and make an appointment at your Villa Rica, GA veterinary clinic to check for health issues and to set up a vaccination schedule.