Choosing the right breeder and puppy for you

Choose a puppy that fits your lifestyle and how you spend your everyday life. Find out as much as you can about the breed you're interested in, and consider what's best for both you and the dog together. For example, if you know you'll only be taking short walks around the block, it's not a good idea to choose a breed that needs a lot of exercise to be happy.

Think carefully before choosing a timid puppy

Remember that a dog will be part of your family for many years. If you choose a more cautious and hesitant puppy, it’s best if you have experience in helping dogs overcome shyness. Having the right foundations from the start will help you both along the way.

Questions from the breeder

A good sign you've found the right breeder is when they ask you questions about your lifestyle and suitability. This shows they have the puppy's best interests at heart, reflecting well on the kennel and the puppy's upbringing.

Choose a puppy based on its behaviour

Observe how the puppies behave towards you. Stand still for a moment and see how they react. Who comes forward the quickest to greet you? Who seeks eye contact immediately? Who waits, and who walks away? Compare your observations with the characteristics you're looking for in an adult dog.

A puppy that approaches you with curiosity and happiness is usually the right choice. Don't choose a puppy based on price – the most important thing is finding a dog that will be a good fit for your life.

You can also ask the breeder to handle the puppies to see how they behave with someone they trust. A puppy that seemed reserved with you might be confident and forward with someone it knows well.