Simple steps to buying a puppy

Follow our simple steps to buying a puppy:

Do your research

• Check that the breed you are buying is compatible with your circumstances

• Reseach any inherent health problems in your chosen breed

• Check with the seller if any necessary tests have been carried out

• Never buy because you feel sorry for the puppy, or buy on impulse

The ideal puppy should come from a healthy, caring and friendly background. It should have already been regularly wormed, part house trained and have had contact with people and family life.

Find out about your pet's background

Go to a reputable rescue society or breeder, or to the mother's owner. Responsible people will not mind you asking questions and will want to ask you some of their own. You should always see the puppy's mother, and other relatives if possible, in the place where it was bred. If the seller can't show you the mother you should be suspicious.  

• Never buy from a dealer or pet shop

• Never buy from someone who offers to deliver your puppy or who arranges to meet you somewhere 

Check the health of your puppy

Puppies should receive their first vaccinations before they leave their mother. Always ask to see the vaccination card and double check with the vet as vaccination cards are easy to fake. Has your new puppy been wormed and flea treated? Also bear in mind that pedigree certificates are not a guarantee for the condition of your puppy. 

Buying littermates

2 young dogs of the same age can emerge into rivals, particularly if they are the same sex. They can also make their primary bond with each other as opposed to an owner and they can then become difficult to train.

What if things go wrong?

If you're concerned about the health or welfare of a puppy contact the RSPCA 24-hour cruelty and advice line on 0300 1234 999. All calls are treated in the strictest confidence. If you have concerns about the way your puppy has been sold contact Consumer Direct or telephone 08454 04 05 06, who will be able to give you advice and, where appropriate, pass details on to the local Trading Standards service for investigation.   

After getting your new puppy

Remember that if you have children they too will need to be trained to handle it. 

• Never leave a child alone with a dog or a puppy

• Finish the course of vaccinations

• Get your puppy microchipped and insured