Thinking of filling that puppy-sized hole in your life with a pooch of your own? Well, you’re not alone with more than 3.2 million households in the UK thought to have acquired a pet during the pandemic. It’s an exciting time to say the least but there are plenty of things to consider before you welcome a bundle of fur and fun into your home.
Before you take that leap, you need to be certain that you can keep up with your dog’s needs for the entirety of its life, not just in those puppy years. From puppy gates and crates to specialised food and walking accessories, there is also a whole host of essentials you need to purchase to ensure that your four-legged friend is happy and thriving.
Adopting a puppy has been compared to having a baby – in that they require a lot of attention and care. In other words, buying a puppy will change your life considerably so you need to be thinking about the following questions:
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How busy is your lifestyle?
Puppies need near-constant time and attention as they can get up to all kinds of mischief. They’ll also need to be fed every day and go out for daily exercise. Is your lifestyle compatible with this?
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Do you have children?
Children and puppies don’t always mix. You’ll need to chat with your kids about how a puppy needs to be cared for before you bring it home and take time to build the new relationship.
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Do you have the space?
Different dogs will need varying amounts of space to live in and some breeds need more than others. Keeping a dog in a flat is fine as long as you’re able to meet their exercise and toilet needs.
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Can you afford it?
Puppies are by no means cheap, and things can really add up after the initial purchase fee. The PDSA estimates the minimum lifetime cost between £5,000 and 12,200 depending on the breed, what with the price of food, vet bills, toys, and other essentials needed. For example, short-haired pooches will require dog coats in the winter and you’ll need a crate for any newborn pups.
Choosing your puppy
When it comes to choosing your puppy, you’ll need to do some research on which breeds will best suit your lifestyle. There are many characteristics to consider, including size, pet/child-friendliness, exercise, and grooming requirements.
After you’ve narrowed your choice down, the next step is to find a reputable breeder who breeds healthy, happy dogs. It’s important to know the signs of an irresponsible breeder to avoid buying from puppy farms or unethical online businesses.