The right puppy in the right home is a wonderful thing, but it may be that your life-style is better suited to re-homing an adult rescue dog instead?

How much time can you devote to the new puppy?

Puppies thrive when they receive a lot of attention. In order to grow up into a happy, healthy adult dog, it is important that owners invest plenty of time training, exercising, playing and caring for their puppy. 

How much exercise can you give your puppy?

Different sized dogs require different levels of exercise in puppyhood. Ask your breeder, vet or nurse how much exercise your puppy needs.  It is advisable to keep puppies on a lead when walking, this helps keep them safe but also helps to protect their rapidly growing limbs and joints from too much running around!

How much space do you have?

Dogs like to have a place in their home to retreat to for quiet time and they like to have access to a garden outdoors.

What’s your budget?

It’s good to consider that as well as the initial purchase cost, you’ll have all sorts of on-going costs: vet’s bills, dog food, annual vaccinations, flea and worming treatments, pet insurance, boarding kennels and – for some long-haired dogs – professional grooming.


Any allergies in the family?

There are many dogs that are bred to be non-allergenic, but it’s best to check this for real when you meet the puppy and its mother.

Male or female?

It’s up to you – we think that they both make great pets! Remember that unspayed female dogs come into season twice a year and will need special care during this time. And unneutered male dogs can stray if they sniff out a female dog in season nearby. It is important as a responsible dog owner to talk to your vet about having your dog neutered / your bitch spayed.

What about an adult dog?

An adult dog can be just as rewarding as a puppy. An adult dog could even be already house-trained and may have learnt some useful skills, like walking to heel on the lead. Find out what you can about the dog’s temperament, and if you can, try taking him or her out for a walk before you make a final decision.

Be honest with yourself if your first choice doesn’t fit the way you live your life. But with a little research, you should discover your ideal dog.

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