Top 10 tips to finding the right puppy

So you’d love to get a dog and have finally decided to go for it! That’s great. Now you’ll need to find the perfect puppy: the one that is just right for you. But how can you choose when they are all so adorable? Never fear, we’re here to help! Here are our Top 10 Tips to finding a puppy who is right for you!

1. Your Lifestyle

What kind of lifestyle do you have? Do you work at home or at an office? If you’ll be out a lot, a needier dog will miss you terribly, which can lead to behavioural issues. A more confident dog will be fine with a dog-sitter looking after them. Even if you work from home, if you love hiking then the chances are that a little Pug or English Bulldog is not going to be your ideal companion, whereas as a Cocker Spaniel or German Shepherd will happily join you on your hikes.

2. Location, location, location:

Do you live in a flat, a house, a villa? Is your accommodation rented or do you own it? Do you have a fenced garden or yard? Is there an area nearby where you can walk your dog? These are all vital to consider when buying a dog. Bigger dogs such as Alsatians or Rottweilers may not enjoy living in a studio apartment, whereas a tiny Chihuahua or Pug may feel quite comfortable in such a cosy home.

3. The breed

Are you interested in a specific breed of dog, such as a French Bulldog or a King Charles Cavalier? You’ll need to do your research to see if your lifestyle is compatible with the needs of the breed. You should also learn about the temperament and health of the breed you are interested: if you want a relaxed dog who loves everyone, then perhaps a more aloof dog such as Tibetan Mastiff isn’t the right match. There are other things to consider; for example, if you have allergies, that last thing you’ll want is a fuzzy Akita!

4. Training time

Do you have any experience in training a puppy? Puppies need to learn a lot, such as basic manners: not jumping up on people or barking at everything. They’ll also need to be house trained, learn basic commands such as sit, how to walk on a leash, and so on. If you don’t have much experience, you may wish to invest in puppy classes or the help of a dog trainer.

5. Socialization time

Puppies also need some socialisation so they can get used to new places and experiences. They’ll need to get used to meeting new dogs and people until they feel confident with whatever they encounter. Most dog breeders will socialise their puppies, and some will also do basic training.

So you’ve thought about what dog is right for you and would be happy with your lifestyle. Now you can start looking for your puppy.

6. Where to look

Generally when looking for a dog, you can choose to buy a dog from a breeder, or adopt one from a rescue. There are advantages to both.

Rescues usually have puppies for adoption, though they are often crossbred dogs, so it can be a little hard to guess how large they will grow. The bonus is that mixed-breed dogs are often very hardy.

If you go to a breeder, you’ll have a better idea of how large your puppy will grow, as well as the puppy’s history, and health information. They will also be able to advise you on your chosen breed. You’ll also have a certificate of your puppy’s pedigree, so you may be able to compete in dog shows in the future.

NewDoggy.com sells healthy, European, purebred dogs and puppies only. All dogs come from responsible and ethical breeders.

7. Breeders

If you have your heart set on a pedigree dog, then it is essential that you find a reputable breeder. “Puppy mills” or irresponsible breeders may treat their dogs poorly or misrepresent their puppies. Their dogs will often have health problems, which may lead to heartbreak in the long run. Instead, go to a responsible breeder. Responsible breeders test their dogs for health and soundness, and take excellent care of their dogs.

NewDoggy.com promotes responsible and ethical dog breeders’ dogs and puppies on its website. These breeders take good care of their dogs, and take pride in their dogs’ welfare and health.

8. Puppy personality

When looking for a puppy, personality is important. Just like people, dogs have different personalities, and not every canine personality is right for you. You should be able to visit a breeder and see the puppy with its mother: this will give you some idea of the puppy’s potential personality. If you can, try to spend some time watching the puppies. See which pups are more playful or quieter. You can also ask the breeder about the puppies’ characters: a good breeder will help you decide which puppy you’ll get along with the best.

At NewDoggy.com, we can provide you with pictures of the dog or puppy’s parents. We’re also happy to give you detailed descriptions of each dog’s character, to help you find the ideal canine companion.

9. Health

Adopting a healthy puppy will save you expense and stress later on. A responsible breeder should make use of health screening to check for inherited conditions such as hip dysplasia. The breeder should also know any health conditions associated with their breed. They will also get the puppy its first vaccinations, and/or offer you a certificate proving that the puppy’s parents are healthy. You can also ask for a check-up with the vet before you buy your puppy.

We at NewDoggy.com deal only with ethical and responsible breeders, and can help you find healthy purebred puppies and dogs, some even with champion lines, and a Health and Lifetime Puppyness Guarantee. Our breeders screen their dogs for health problems, such as hip dysplasia, and are very knowledgeable about any conditions associated with their dog breed. Some breeders can offer you a certificate proving that the puppy’s parents are healthy. You can also ask for a check-up with the vet before you buy your puppy.

10. Take your time

Don’t feel pressured into taking a puppy for fear that they’ll all be gone. Take time to think about the positives and negatives of each puppy you meet. Meet multiple breeders if you can, so that you have a wider selection. Take the time to talk to other dog owners, as they may be able to help you find a good breeder. Online research is also a valuable tool for you to find your perfect pet.

NewDoggy.com can help to make your search easier, and can put you in contact with various responsible and ethical dog breeders.