Once you've decided which breed is right for you, the next step is identifying a responsible breeder. Taking the time to research breeders carefully can help you make an informed decision and give your puppy the best possible start in life.
Choosing the right breeder is important
Taking the time to choose a responsible breeder who prioritises the health, welfare and temperament of their dogs will increase your chances of ending up with a happy, healthy dog that lives for a long time.
Buying a puppy should never be a rushed decision. Responsible breeders will want to get to know you, answer your questions and ensure that one of their puppies is the right fit for your home. If you feel under pressure to make a quick decision, it's worth taking a step back and considering why.
Take time to research breeders
Buying a puppy is a long-term commitment, so it’s worth taking the time to research both the breed and the breeder before making your decision.
Recent research undertaken as part of our Be Puppywise campaign found that:
- A quarter of puppy buyers do less than two hours research before buying their puppy
- One in five wish they had spent more time researching their decision
- And 70% of those owners who spent less than two hours researching their decision experienced complications after getting their puppy, from facing unexpected health and behavioural problems, to not receiving medical history and vaccination records
Why choosing a responsible breeder matters
There are many dedicated breeders who are passionate about the future of their breed and are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialised puppies.
Unfortunately, not everyone breeds with the same prioritises. Some individuals place profit ahead of the health and welfare of their dogs, often keeping them
in unsuitable conditions and failing to give puppies the best possible start in life.
Taking time to research breeders carefully can help you make a more informed decision and support responsible breeding practices.
Next step – avoiding puppy farmers
Now that you know how to identify the characteristics of a responsible breeder, it’s equally important to recognise the warning signs of irresponsible breeding. Buying a puppy from an irresponsible breeder can have a lasting impact on your dog’s health, welfare and behaviour, so it’s of vital importance to know the type of breeders you should avoid.
