The Do’s and Don’ts of Getting a Puppy
Bringing a puppy into your home is an exciting time, but it’s also a huge responsibility.
The choices you make at the very beginning will shape your puppy’s health, happiness, and behaviour for years to come. Here are some important do’s and don’ts to guide you through the process of finding the right puppy and giving them the best possible start.
Choosing the Right Breeder
Do:
Take your time and do your research. A good breeder will be happy to answer all your questions and provide plenty of information.
Ask to meet the mother, and ideally the father too, so you can see their temperament and overall health.
Request health checks and certificates, and take the time to verify them.
Look for signs that the puppies have been well socialised, such as being introduced to household sounds, people, and different environments from an early age.
Ask about the breeder’s goals - responsible breeders care about improving health and temperament, not just producing litters.
Don’t:
Buy from puppy farms, pet shops, or anyone who refuses to let you meet the parent dogs.
Be rushed into a decision by a breeder who pressures you to pay quickly or “reserve” a puppy without proper checks.
Choose a puppy based on convenience or speed - good breeders often have waiting lists, and that’s a positive sign.
Trust online ads without careful checks. Sadly, many scams exist, and it’s important to see the puppy in person before committing.
Training and Settling In
Do:
Start training right away. Puppies are ready to learn simple cues like “sit” and “come” from a very young age.
Use positive reinforcement such as treats, praise, and play. This builds trust and confidence.
Keep training sessions short and fun - just a few minutes at a time is enough for a young puppy.
Create a routine with regular feeding, toilet breaks, playtime, and plenty of naps.
Use a crate as a safe space and to help with toilet training, introducing it gradually so your puppy feels secure.
Don’t:
Punish accidents or mistakes. Instead, reward the behaviour you want to encourage.
Over-exercise your puppy. Their bodies are still developing, so short play sessions are better than long walks at this stage.
The First Day at Home
Your puppy’s first day is a big adjustment. To make it easier:
Start by giving them access to one room or area, then gradually expand their space.
Take them to a chosen toilet spot regularly and reward them for using it.
Introduce family members calmly and one at a time.
Keep visitors to a minimum until your puppy has settled in.
Make nighttime as stress-free as possible by placing their crate near you and offering comfort if they wake.
Arrange a vet check soon after bringing them home to make sure they’re healthy and up to date with vaccinations.
To Summarise:
Getting a puppy is about more than just finding a cute companion, it’s about making thoughtful choices that set your dog up for a happy and healthy life. Take your time, find a breeder who truly cares, and start training and bonding from day one with patience and kindness.
If you have any questions or need help, reach out to me using the form below, or check out my socials for more helpful tips for dog owners!