Advice for buying a puppy

What you should look for when buying a puppy

Bringing a new puppy into your home is a big and exciting decision.

A responsible seller helps make sure your puppy is healthy, well-socialised, and bred in safe and humane conditions. Choosing the right seller is just as important as choosing the right breed or type of dog. 

Use the points below to help you make a safe and informed choice.

Check that the seller is licensed

Most breeders require a local authority licence.

A responsible seller will share their licence number and follow proper welfare standards. If a seller refuses to provide this, walk away.

See the puppy with its mother

Always visit the puppy in the home where it was bred. Check that:

• the mother and puppies are healthy and comfortable
• the environment is clean and safe

Avoid sellers who offer to meet elsewhere or make excuses.

Ask questions and expect them to ask questions of you

A good seller will want to know about your home and lifestyle. Ask about:

• the age of the puppy, which must be over 8 weeks
• vet checks, vaccinations, microchipping, and worming
• health tests for the parents
• socialisation and early training

Check paperwork and health information

Before taking your puppy home, make sure you receive:

• microchip details registered to you
• vaccination and worming records
• diet and care information
• any relevant health certificates

Be cautious of sellers who rush you or offer discounts to 'take today'.

Know the warning signs

Walk away if:

• the price seems unusually low
• multiple breeds or litters are advertised at once
• the seller will not provide an address
• puppies look unwell or fearful

Consider adoption

Rescue centres often have dogs and puppies looking for homes. It is a responsible alternative worth exploring.

Related information

View our animal welfare page for more information about the required licensing for breeding and selling puppies.