Buying a puppy safely and responsibly

Find a reputable breeder

Finding a reputable breeder is the most important step to buying a puppy responsibly. Most breeders are passionate about their dog’s welfare and typically breed from healthy stock. But there is a risk of scammers and puppy farms to be aware of. 

Luckily, you have the internet at your disposal. Searching online through reputable websites or asking other dog owners for recommendations can put you in front of trusted breeders.

Ask to meet the breeder and the litter

Buying from a breeder involves a lot of research. No matter how excited you might be, it’s never good to rush the process. You should always ask to meet the breeder in person before agreeing to buy a puppy.

Ideally, breeders will arrange for you to visit their home to meet the pups and their mum. This will allow you to see where they were born and raised. The breeder will also be happy to show you their license (if they’re breeding and selling as a business) and answer any questions and might have.

However, some dishonest sellers may keep dogs isolated in poor conditions and prioritise breeding over their welfare – known as puppy farming. Look out for the following signs when buying from a breeder:

• The mother looks stressed or unhealthy
• Only meeting one puppy with no other dogs or littermates
• Puppies that have been separated from the mother too early
• Using a home as a front with no other visible signs of dog ownership
• The seller not showing an interest in you or your living situation
• Puppies are offered before they are eight weeks old – which is illegal

Avoid paying money upfront before meeting the breeder or puppy. This could be a sign of an online scam, and the pup might not even exist. Once you’ve met the breeder and agreed to buy a puppy, they may ask for a deposit. This will secure your chosen pup for you, before you pay the full amount when you come to collect them at eight weeks old.

Questions to ask when buying a puppy

When buying a puppy from a breeder, it’s a good idea to ask some questions. You’ll need information about the process, the dog’s welfare, pricing, when to arrange a visit and more. You might want to write down your questions, so you’re prepared.

General questions

• Did the breeder breed the puppies themselves?
• Are the puppies microchipped?
• What food are the puppies being fed?
• Have the puppies been vaccinated?
• What is the age and pedigree of both parents?
• Have the puppies been kept where they were bred?
• Do the puppies or their mother have any health problems?
• How old are the puppies? Are they ready to leave their mother?

Housing and socialisation questions

• Where does the breeder live?
• Do people regularly interact with the puppies?
• Have the puppies met and been handled by children?
• Have the puppies met other adult dogs besides their mother?

The breeder will want to get to know you and ensure their puppies are going to the right home, so be prepared to answer their questions, too.

Getting a puppy from a shelter

An alternative to buying a puppy is adopting from a shelter. Shelters are a great ethical way to rehome a pup and give them a fresh start. Like reputable breeders, shelters take dogs’ health and welfare extremely seriously.

If you’re considering getting a puppy from a shelter, it’s worth asking about the pup’s history, health issues, behaviour and if they have specific needs. Here are a few to get you started.

The puppy’s history

• How long have they been at the shelter?
• Have they been rehomed more than once?
• What breed are their parents?

The puppy’s health

• What is their health status?
• Have they had any surgeries?
• Are they on any medication? 
• Do they have any dietary requirements?

The puppy’s behaviour

• Are they house trained?
• How do they act around other dogs?
• What are they like around children?
• How much exercise will they need?

Shelters will spend a lot of time with puppies under their care. Staff are usually on hand to provide detailed information about their pup’s needs, which will help to prepare you for the rehoming process.

Preparing your home for a new puppy

The process of buying a puppy is a long one, but getting your new companion settled in is worth it. Once you’re satisfied the breeder and puppy are right for you, it’s time to prepare your home for the new tail-wagging arrival.

Buying the new puppy essentials

Before you can shower your pup with love and kisses, you’ll need to buy the essentials  first. If you’re stuck on what to buy a puppy, consider what your four-legged friend will need the moment they arrive home.

Essential items to have ready for your precious pup include:

• Toys
• Puppy crate
• Identity disk
• Dog waste bags
• Dog food and treats
• Bedding and blanket
• Food and water bowls
• Lead, collar and/or harness
• Grooming and bathing equipment 

Puppy proof the house

Make your home pup-proof to protect your possessions and keep your curious canine safe. The last thing you need is holes in your favourite shoes or smashed vases.

Consider the following measures to create a pup-friendly home:

• Install baby gates
• Place household chemicals out of reach
• Remove toxic/poisonous houseplants
• Make sure the garden is fully fenced
• Hide electrical cables behind furniture
• Move breakable objects out of reach
• Hide shoes in cupboards

Agree on training and establishing a routine

It’s not all fun and games – after buying a puppy, you’ll need to dedicate a lot of time to their training and socialisation. If they’re a new member of a budding family, get everyone in the household involved in your puppy’s upbringing. 

Gradually introduce your puppy to the family, including adults, children, cats and other dogs. Set up a dedicated areas for feeding, sleeping, and a den in a quiet area of the house.

It’s equally necessary to agree on who will be responsible for what – whether it’s feeding, training or walking. Ensure that everyone is on the same page to help your pup settle into family life. 

Register with a vet

Most crucially, your pup must be registered with a vet, where they can receive routine check-ups, treatment and health care. You can find your local vet online or through the RSVS search facility. 

Your excitable pooch can get into all sorts of mischief, which can lead to accidents and vet trips. It’s a good idea to take out dog insurance to manage emergency treatments and cover vet bills.

Our pet insurance offers 24/7 vet assistance, multi-pet discounts and a range of cover – from dental care to behavioural therapy. Choose from three policy levels and protect your pup for their lifetime. 

Please note that we won't cover any pre-existing conditions and that terms, conditions, excesses, exclusions and limitations apply.