Where Should I Get a Puppy?

Where to Get a Puppy in Ireland

Congratulations – you’re getting a puppy! Bringing home a new puppy is so exciting, and I bet you can’t wait to have a little four legged friend running around your home. After doing all the research into raising a pup and deciding to take on the responsibility, the next big question is, where exactly do you get a puppy?

Your options are either adopting a puppy from a rescue centre, or getting a puppy from a responsible breeder. There are advantages and disadvantages to both of these sources, so it’s important to carefully consider both options and decide what is best for you and your family. In this blog post, I’ll explain what to look out for in both a rescue centre and a breeder, what questions to ask, and what the benefits and drawbacks are to both.

Adopting a Puppy from the Rescue Centre

There is a stigma around shelter dogs that they are ‘damaged’ dogs, which is simply not true. They are just pups that have been unfortunate in their lives up until now. Many dogs are surrendered to rescue centres for several reasons, such as a change in family situation or lack of time. It is not always because of the dog’s behaviour.

Pros and Cons of Adopting a Puppy

I’ve worked with dog rescues for years, fostering dogs and helping find forever homes for pups in need – and I have also had five of my own dogs come to me from a shelter situation, so let’s take a look at the pros and cons for adopting your puppy from a rescue centre or animal shelter, and what you can expect.

5 Most Important Questions to Ask the Adoption Centre:

1. What is his history? (How he came to the shelter, how long he’s been in the shelter, has he been adopted before)
2. Tell me about his healthcare history (vaccinations, neutering/spaying, any allergies or illnesses he has had, is he microchipped, is he up to date with his flea and worm treatments)
3. Is he trained? (Potty trained, crate trained, obedience trained)
4. What is his behaviour like? (Does he get nervous around certain types of people such as children, does he get on with other pets, does he get separation anxiety, does he bark a lot, how long can he be left home alone)
5. What are his typical energy levels like? (favourite activities, how often he needs to be walked, does he like to relax)

Whether you decide to adopt an older dog from a rescue shelter or buy a puppy from a breeder, make sure you are willing to put in the time and effort it takes to properly care for a dog. Your dog is your most loyal companion, so make sure you treat him as such!

Getting a Puppy from the Breeder

If you decide to go with getting a puppy from a breeder, always make sure they are reputable and responsible. A responsible breeder will be careful who they sell their puppy to, so always ask lots of questions and expect lots of questions in return. Many unsuspecting people buy puppies from puppy mills, where they often have medical and behavioural issues.

You should always personally visit a breeder’s facility before buying a puppy. Make sure you see the mother and where the puppies were born and raised. Put in the time and effort to find the right breeder and you’ll thank yourself for the rest of your dog’s life.

Top 5 Questions To Ask Dog Breeders:

1. Show me their parents (this will help you get a better understanding of what breed your puppy may belong to and how he will look when he’s older)
2. How long have you been breeding and what’s your experience?
3. How do you socialise your puppy? (It is essential that puppies are properly socialized so they become well-adjusted dogs. You should enquire if the puppies have been around people, other dogs, and if they are calm in a household environment.)
4. Tell me about their healthcare (vaccinations, special needs. Most likely would not have been neutered yet)
5. What requirements must people have when looking to get one of your puppies? (You must be eager to ask lots of questions but make sure the breeder is doing the same to you. This will help you determine if he truly cares about where and whom the puppies are going to)