Bringing a puppy into your life is such an exciting time – but it’s also a big decision, and there’s a lot to think about before you fall in love with a pair of big brown eyes! Choosing the right breed, the right breeder, and the right pup from the litter can make a world of difference to your experience. So let me show you how to get it right from the start.

Step 1: Is this breed right for you?

Not all dogs are created equal – some need loads of exercise, some are couch potatoes, and some come with a whole heap of grooming needs or health concerns. So before you start scrolling through puppy pictures, it’s a good idea to do your homework.

Ask yourself:

What’s my lifestyle like?
How much time do I have for training, exercise, and grooming?
Am I looking for a high energy dog that can walk for hours on end, a dog to be a chilled out calm lapdog , a family-friendly goofy dog, or a more independent companion?

And don’t forget about rescue dogs – there are loads of lovely pups out there looking for homes, and some centres even have puppies needing a fresh start. It’s always worth checking your local rescue or rehoming centre before going down the breeder route.

Step 2: Finding the right breeder.

If you’ve got your heart set on a specific breed and decide to go through a breeder, it’s really important to find someone reputable who puts the dogs’ welfare first. A good breeder should:

Welcome your questions
Be transparent about health tests and vet checks
Have already started socialising the puppies
Be raising the litter in a clean, calm home environment – not a shed or a “show house”

Step 3: What to look for when you visit.

This part is exciting – but try not to get swept up in all the fluff! Here’s what to look out for when you meet the litter:

The puppies should be:

Bright, curious, and keen to interact
Clean, with no discharge from eyes, nose, or ears
Free from scabs, fleas, or any obvious skin problems
Walking well, with no limps or signs of discomfort
Comfortable being handled

The environment should be:

Clean, dry, and warm
Safe, quiet, and homely – not rented or staged for showings
Spacious enough for the puppies to play and explore

Spend time watching how the pups interact with each other and with mum. Mum should look healthy, be relaxed around her pups, and not be fearful or shut down around people. If the breeder rushes you or discourages questions – huge red flag🚩🚩.

Step 4: Ask questions. Then ask some more, then a few more for good measure!

Before your visit, have a proper chat with the breeder. You should be able to ask things like:

How old are the pups, and when will they be ready to leave? (They must be at least 8 weeks old).
Have they had worming treatments, vet checks, and vaccinations?
What food are they on?
What health screening has been done on the parents?

A good breeder should also want to get to know you. Don’t be surprised if they ask you lots of questions too – that’s a good sign! It means they care where their puppies are going.

Step 5: The paperwork

Yes, there’s paperwork. And it matters!

Ask to see:

Vet health check records and vaccination details
Microchip documentation (legally required before rehoming)
Any health screening certificates for the parents
Puppy insurance details (many breeders include a few weeks’ cover)
A Puppy Contract if they’re using one

Just remember – Kennel Club registration doesn’t guarantee a healthy or well-bred pup. Always do your own digging.

Step 6: Don’t rush

Take your time. Don’t let anyone pressure you into “reserving now” or choosing on the spot. If anything feels wrong – walk away. And if you’re worried about the conditions or how the puppies are being treated, please report it to Trading Standards, the RSPCA (England & Wales), or the SSPCA (Scotland)

Final thoughts

Choosing a puppy is a big decision – and one that can shape your life for years to come. So take your time, ask lots of questions, and make sure the puppy you bring home is the right fit for you and your lifestyle, and that you and your lifestyle are a good fit for the puppy!

If you have already chosen a puppy and are excitedly waiting to bring him home, or you have just welcomed a new puppy, head over to my blog on puppy socialisation and how to get it right from the start. Alternatively, if you would like to know more about what you can do to fulfil your dogs innate breed needs , check out my blog on breed specific traits.

I am an accredited dog trainer working in and around the Llandudno, Colwyn Bay, Rhos on sea and surrounding areas.

If you need help choosing a breed, preparing your home, or getting started with training – take a look at the services I offer.

Thinking about getting a puppy? Here’s what you need to know first