First - Don't support puppy farming!
Please don't support the cruel practice of puppy farming and always know where your puppy comes from!
Only buy from a reputable breeder and never from the back of a car, a pet shop or on-line and especially if you can't meet the mother. A good breeder will always want you to come and meet the mum and will want to know about you before you ever get to take a puppy home. Ask to see where the puppies are raised and observe the puppies and the mums behaviour. If you're looking for a breeder, try the Kennel Club site and breed clubs who can help point you in the right direction or consider a rescue. Ask a local vet who are the breeders in your area or go along to puppy classes to find out where people got their puppies. Accept that you may have to wait a while to get the puppy you want but it's worth it to get a healthy, happy puppy and to stop the horrible torture that puppy farming brings to both puppies and adult dogs. If you want to learn more click on the logo below.
Click the Logo to find out more about this illegal cruel practice and what you can do to help`
Should You Get a Puppy?
You've been thinking about getting a puppy. Maybe you know someone with a brilliant dog or you've seen one in a movie that was really amazing, so you want one too. Maybe you fancy something cute to cuddle up with or a strong protector to help you feel safe.
If you are truly ready for a puppy, then you'll have really thought it through and spent time researching the breed you like. You'll have chosen a good breeder, bought all your puppy's equipment, identified a veterinary practice, and booked a place at a puppy class (make sure it is a class just for young puppies and only uses force-free, positive training techniques). So now you're ready to go!
However, if you haven't done this, you need to know that raising a dog is a lot of work, rewarding yes, but it takes commitment. Puppies don't come pre-programmed, they have to be taught how to be a 'good dog' and they can't fully control their bladder until at least 6 months old! Oh, and no matter what breed characteristics a dog may have, each is an individual with its own personality and quirky behaviours, so you can never be sure what your puppy is going to be like until it lives in your home .
When choosing a puppy there's a lot to think about, but first ask yourself:
Can I afford a dog? Vet bills, food, equipment, etc.
Do I have the time for a dog? Dogs are social animals and need your attention!
Do I like to walk? This is very important - all dogs, regardless of breed, need to go for walks, almost every day.
Will I train my dog? YOU have to teach your puppy manners - like children, they have to be taught how to behave. Puppy classes are a good start. However, be sensitive to the fact that puppies tire easily so fun short sessions are best.
Will I socialise my dog? To be well-adjusted, a dog needs to meet lots of different people and dogs, as well as experiencing many different environments and situations. You need to start doing this as soon you get your puppy because you only have a short time of up to around 12 weeks of age to get the important foundations developed.
Will I be around a lot? Dogs need you to be there for them all their lives, but are especially dependent on you when they're young. Many dogs don't cope well with being alone for more than 4 hours. Puppies can get very distressed when left for even shorter periods and it's best to be able to take time off work when you first get a puppy.
If you are truly ready for a puppy, then you'll have really thought it through and spent time researching the breed you like. You'll have chosen a good breeder, bought all your puppy's equipment, identified a veterinary practice, and booked a place at a puppy class (make sure it is a class just for young puppies and only uses force-free, positive training techniques). So now you're ready to go!
However, if you haven't done this, you need to know that raising a dog is a lot of work, rewarding yes, but it takes commitment. Puppies don't come pre-programmed, they have to be taught how to be a 'good dog' and they can't fully control their bladder until at least 6 months old! Oh, and no matter what breed characteristics a dog may have, each is an individual with its own personality and quirky behaviours, so you can never be sure what your puppy is going to be like until it lives in your home .
When choosing a puppy there's a lot to think about, but first ask yourself:
Can I afford a dog? Vet bills, food, equipment, etc.
Do I have the time for a dog? Dogs are social animals and need your attention!
Do I like to walk? This is very important - all dogs, regardless of breed, need to go for walks, almost every day.
Will I train my dog? YOU have to teach your puppy manners - like children, they have to be taught how to behave. Puppy classes are a good start. However, be sensitive to the fact that puppies tire easily so fun short sessions are best.
Will I socialise my dog? To be well-adjusted, a dog needs to meet lots of different people and dogs, as well as experiencing many different environments and situations. You need to start doing this as soon you get your puppy because you only have a short time of up to around 12 weeks of age to get the important foundations developed.
Will I be around a lot? Dogs need you to be there for them all their lives, but are especially dependent on you when they're young. Many dogs don't cope well with being alone for more than 4 hours. Puppies can get very distressed when left for even shorter periods and it's best to be able to take time off work when you first get a puppy.
If you have said "No", to any of these questions
DON'T GET A PUPPY OR AN ADULT DOG!
DON'T GET A PUPPY OR AN ADULT DOG!