A new puppy is exciting! Whether you’re a first-time dog owner, or have kept dogs before, checking these pitfalls of puppy-planning will make the whole experience positive.

Pre-puppy commitment

Dogs make amazing pets and companions, but it takes time and money to do it properly. Be realistic about the hours you can commit to walking and training your puppy, and who in the family is ultimately responsible. Will you require a dog walker or doggy day-care on a regular basis? Many dog breeds need professional grooming, and don’t forget veterinary fees, or who will look after them if you are away.

Steps to Choosing your puppy:

1. Research, research!

It’s wise to choose a breed to match your lifestyle. In recent years, certain cross-breeds have become popular. If this is your choice, it’s important to know as much as you can about mum and dad to ensure you get the best of both breeds. Gun dogs are sought after, but whilst many have impressive pedigrees with lots of field trial champions and prizes, they are very active dogs requiring a lot of stimulation and exercise! Remember that good breeding might not be important if you prefer a chilled out lifestyle.  

2. Visit your breeder

When you first visit a breeder, it’s a good idea to go without children. This prevents any upset youngsters trying to sway your judgement if you need to change your mind for any reason. Be equipped with a list of questions and do your research. For example, have the parents had the relevant breed specific health tests? Or were the puppies bred indoors or outdoors? You should also consider if the puppy’s environment looks clean.

3. Always ask to see Mum

A trusted breeder matters. Make sure the ‘mum’ that you are shown is a correct match to the puppies. Does she have an obvious bond with them, and does she look like she has been producing milk recently? If you have any doubts, ask the breeder to show you pictures of the litter growing up with the specified ‘mum’.

4. Best breeding practice

There are many excellent breeders, and sadly a few who let the side down. Don’t be afraid to ask how many litters the mother has had during her life. We recommend a bitch is around two years old before she has her first litter (roughly her third season) and the Kennel Club states clearly they should be under eight years old by their last. In addition, if a breeder is breeding more than three litters a year from their dogs, they must hold a breeding licence.

5. Puppies health and environment

Ideally your breeder should provide an information pack when your puppy goes home with you. This should detail the names and dates of any parasite treatments they have received. If they are kennel club registered, you should also receive documentation and microchipping paperwork (by law, breeders must do this by 8 weeks of age). If your chosen puppy has already had a vet check for any reason, a letter should be provided to show this took place.

6. Decide from your head, not just your heart

Puppies are so very delightful. But remember, they will be with you for a long time. Before you commit, don’t forget that you are in charge and it’s totally OK to pause to think.

And regardless of where you get your dog from, the breeder should always be willing to answer as many questions as you have.

If it doesn’t feel right – it’s best to walk away.

VetShack Hacks: helpful advice for animal lovers who care for their pets.