Here are some questions you should be asking your self; before you go out and get a puppy. If you need help in trying to answer some of these questions, ask a local expert like a vet or go to a re-homing centre, as they will know what is best.
1) Who will look after the puppy when I am at work or on holiday?
2) How many times will I have to take the puppy out for a walk?
3) What are the yearly costs of having a puppy/dog? (Including everything from pet food to pet insurance)
4) Is my house/garden big enough for a puppy/dog?
5) Is there a local pet sitter and a local dog club in my area, where I can get useful info from and someone to take care of the puppy/dog?
6) How old does the puppy have to be; before leaving its mother?
A) Usually it is about 8 weeks or more.
7) How long can it take to train a puppy; to do basic stuff like toilet training and basic commands?
8) If I have 2 puppies, how long will it take until a pecking order is established?
9) Will I need to research the different type of dog breeds; to find out which breed is best suited to my life/family?
10) Does the puppy need a regular check up at the vets?
11) Will I have to do some research on the breeder I have found, for example will I need to get some references from previous people who have bought a puppy from the breeder, just encase the breeder was not legitimate
and was just out to get my money?
12) Once I have found the right breeder, will I need to do some check ups on the puppy?
A) Yes definitely, you will need all the certificates (KC Registered, Health Checks etc) for the puppy and check if they are real. Make sure you see the parents of the puppy and to also find out if they have had; all the correct check ups and certificates. Also try to find an established local pet sitter, vet or trainer, as they will have a lot of knowledge with these kind of things and will give you some great help.
13) Can I make a lifelong commitment to a dog?
A) A dog’s average life span is 12 years.
Remember-Before you buy a puppy, you should seek professional advice.
For more information before buying a puppy, read are buyers guide.