Advice for dog owners

Buying a dog

When buying a dog:

• Make sure you know your legal responsibilities as a dog owner
• Research the breed you intend to buy
• Check with the seller if any necessary tests have been carried out
• Never buy on impulse or because you feel sorry for the puppy
• Never buy from someone who offers to deliver your puppy or who arranges to meet you somewhere

Read about the benefits of adopting a dog on the Battersea Dogs and Cats Home website. Visit the Animal Care College website to register for a free distance learning course on how to care for your pet. 

Neutering your dog

Neutering is the surgical removal of the reproductive organs of animals. Neutering is known as 'spaying' in females and 'castration' in males. There are many health and behavioural advantages to neutering your pet. Read about the benefits of neutering on the Dogs Trust website.

Microchipping and tattooing

All dogs must be microchipped. Read our dog ownership and the law page for more details. Get your dog microchipped and, should he become lost or stolen, they are more likely to be safely returned to you. Dog tattoo identification offers a permanent, visible means of identifying your pet if they are lost or stolen.

Dog trainers and behaviourists

Visit the Battersea Dogs and Cats Home website for advice about how to deal with problem behaviour.

If you need additional assistance, please source a dog trainer or dog behaviourist from a reputable source such as:

The Animal Behaviour & Training Council (ABTC)