Choosing the right puppy: What to think about before you bring one home.

As a new year is close and Christmas is just around the corner, I am seeing more and more people getting puppies before doing their research.

Bringing a puppy into your life is one of the most rewarding things you can do — but it’s also a big commitment. Puppies grow into dogs that will be part of your family for many years, so it’s important to make thoughtful choices from the very start. Here are a few key things to consider when choosing your new best friend.

1. Start With the Right Breeder

If you’ve decided on a pedigree puppy, finding a reputable breeder is absolutely essential. A good breeder will put the health and welfare of their dogs first. They’ll happily show you where the puppies are raised, let you meet the mother, and provide health checks and genetic testing results.

Red flags to avoid:

• Puppies offered without meeting the breeder or seeing the mother.

• No health certificates or vaccination records.

• Pressure to make a quick decision.

A trustworthy breeder will also ask you plenty of questions — they care about where their pups are going and want to make sure it’s the right fit for everyone.

2. Understand the Breed’s Purpose

Every breed has a history. Whether it’s retrieving game, herding sheep, guarding property, or simply being a companion, dogs were originally bred to do something. These instincts are still very much alive in modern dogs.

Before choosing, ask yourself:

• What was this breed originally bred to do?

• Does that fit with my lifestyle?

For example:

• Working breeds (like Border Collies or German Shepherds) need lots of mental and physical stimulation.

• Gundogs (like Labradors or Spaniels) love to retrieve and explore.

• Companions (like Cavapoos or Bichons) may prefer close contact and family life over long hikes, but can also be more prone to seperation anxiety.

Understanding these instincts will help you pick a breed whose natural drives complement your daily routine.

3. Be Realistic About Exercise and Time

A puppy is adorable — but they’re also a handful. They need constant supervision, toilet training, socialisation, and gentle exposure to the world around them. As they grow, they’ll need daily exercise, training, and plenty of mental stimulation.

If you love the idea of a dog who joins you on long walks or agility sessions, great! Just remember that level of training doesn’t happen overnight. The well-behaved dogs you see out and about have often had years of consistent, patient training to get there.

Ask yourself:

• How much time do I have for walks and play?

• Can I commit to training every day, even when it’s raining or I’m tired?

• Do I have support if I’m away or busy (e.g. family, dog walker, daycare)?

4. Training Is a Journey

That perfectly trained dog you admire didn’t come pre-programmed! It takes time, patience, and consistency to build good habits. Start small: short, positive training sessions, reward-based learning, and plenty of patience.

Consider puppy training classes or working with a qualified trainer. A little help early on can make a huge difference and strengthen your bond for life.

5. Enjoy the Process

Choosing a puppy should never be rushed. Take your time researching, meeting breeders, and thinking about what kind of life you can offer. The right match will lead to years of companionship, love, and shared adventures.

Remember: behind every happy, well-behaved dog is a human who put in the effort, time, and heart to make it happen.