Let’s face it – owning a puppy is a big commitment! Before you take the leap, here are five crucial questions to ask yourself to ensure you’re fully prepared.
1. Can I afford a puppy?
Owning a puppy can be costly, and it's important to be financially prepared. Dogs live for 8–18 years, so you’ll need to plan for ongoing costs. Here's what you’ll need to consider:
Food, toys, bedding, walking equipment and poo bags
Annual vaccinations, flea and worm treatments and neutering (where appropriate)
Vet visits, insurance and unexpected health costs
Kennels, dog walking or pet-sitting fees
Training classes or sessions
According to the PDSA, in 2022 the average monthly cost of owning a dog ranged from £54 to £75, plus an initial outlay of £383–£494. As prices have risen since, it’s essential to ensure your budget can cover these expenses over the long term.
2. Do I have time for a puppy?
Puppies need time, attention, and supervision. For the first few months, they require almost full-time care, including:
Toilet training
Regular exercise (once vaccinated)
Training and socialisation
Playtime
Feeding (3 times daily at first)
If you work full-time and there’s no one at home, it may be difficult to give your puppy the attention they need. If you’re away for long hours, you might need a dog walker or daycare – but these services come with additional costs.
3. What breed is right for me?
Choosing the right breed for your lifestyle is crucial. While each dog’s personality is influenced by its environment and upbringing, breed-specific traits can play a significant role in behaviour. For example, Dachshunds are likely to bark, while Border Collies have strong herding instincts.
Ask yourself the following:
What was the breed originally bred for?
Does the breed have any common health issues? (check out Dog Breed Health)
How much exercise and mental stimulation does this breed need?
What activities does the breed enjoy? Do I enjoy them too?
How large does the breed get, and do I have the space and strength to manage them?
It’s also a good idea to meet dogs of the breed you're considering. Visiting dog shows or local breed clubs can give you a feel for what you’re getting into.
4. Where will I buy my puppy from?
Once you've decided on a breed, finding a reputable breeder is essential. A responsible breeder will:
Be a member of a breed club and register litters with the Kennel Club. For crossbreeds, (Labradoodle, Cockapoo, Sprocker) they should ideally be registered with a relevant club (e.g. Cockapoo Club of GB).
Perform health checks on the parents and provide the relevant certificates.
Allow you to meet the puppies in a home environment, ideally alongside the mother, and ensure they are well-socialised.
5. Am I ready to commit to a puppy for life?
A dog is for life, not just for Christmas! This commitment goes beyond the first few months, and you need to consider the long-term implications:
Where do you see yourself in 5–10 years? Will you still have time and space for a dog?
Are you prepared for possible health or behavioural issues in the future?
What if your circumstances change (e.g. moving, job changes or starting a family)?
With many dogs being surrendered to shelters due to owners not being able to meet their needs, it’s important to think carefully before bringing a puppy into your life.
Ready to start your puppy journey?
If you’re ready to take the next step in raising a well-behaved, happy puppy, I can help! My training services focus on positive reinforcement and building a strong relationship with your new companion.
Find out more about my puppy training package and contact me today to ensure your puppy grows up to be a well-adjusted member of your family!