From first call to your gate: a seven-step roadmap

1. Name the purposeFamily guardian, personal protection or property guard? Who handles the dog daily?
2. Check the homeReview the lease or covenants and your insurance, using the home and coverage page.
3. Shortlist sourcesPick professionals whose dogs you can see work, then use the seller check.
4. Meet the dog twiceOnce calm and once under stress. Bring someone who is not emotionally involved.
5. Get terms in writingPrice, what is included, the return or exchange policy and the health records.
6. Handle import rulesIf the dog comes from out of state, follow the entry requirements below.
7. Prepare the houseSecure the fence, set up a rest area and book your vet and handler lessons.

The Board of Animal Health says a dog entering Indiana needs a certificate of veterinary inspection completed by a licensed, accredited veterinarian within 30 days before entry, that dogs three months or older must be vaccinated for rabies, and that a dog under eight weeks old may not be imported for sale unless it travels with its mother. Details and a phone number are on the BOAH entry requirements page. Check it again before you travel, because requirements can change.

If steps three and four feel like too much alone, K9PN will forward your request to a professional covering your area. The referral does not stand in for your own visit and judgment.