Many people choose a puppy because they want to get the dog used to its future life from the very beginning and have it with them for as long as possible. Others choose a puppy because they want a specific breed. Before getting a puppy, however, it is important to realize that raising a puppy requires a lot of time and attention—often including sleepless nights. Make sure you know what you are getting into. Would you rather adopt an older dog? In the Netherlands, many dogs are waiting in shelters for a new home.

Tip 1 – Choose a type of dog that suits you

Before you start looking, think carefully about what type of dog fits you and your lifestyle. Are you an active, outdoorsy person, or do you prefer relaxing on the couch? Does the dog need to be able to stay home alone during the day? Do you have a busy household? Choose a breed or type that matches your way of living. An active dog needs a lot of exercise, while a calmer dog may fit better into a busy family. Not only the breed or mix matters, but also the temperament of the parents. Ask about this when visiting a litter.

Tip 2 – Choose a responsibly bred, healthy puppy

Several dog breeds can hardly be considered truly healthy anymore. Many pedigree dogs suffer from hereditary (genetic) disorders. To enjoy your new companion for as long as possible and to avoid heartache and high veterinary bills, it is important to be informed about this. Some people say that only mixed-breed dogs are still healthy, but even then it is important to know who the parents are. Make sure the puppy is microchipped and has a European pet passport. If you choose a pedigree dog, ensure that it has a pedigree certificate and do thorough research on the breed and the breeder. You can always contact the breed club for advice. Ask the breeder to send you the purchase contract and other documents before your visit. Some breeders use wording in contracts such as “defective product,” which may mean they will not take responsibility if the dog turns out to be ill. If in doubt, don’t proceed—or at least have someone knowledgeable review the situation with you.

Tip 3 – Check the puppy and the passport carefully

Once you know what kind of dog you want and have informed yourself properly, you can visit a litter. First of all, the puppy itself should look healthy. Check whether the puppy is active, has clear eyes, and a clean nose. Also ask for a health certificate from a veterinarian. A healthy puppy does not have diarrhea, does not cough, and looks well cared for. All vaccinations should also be up to date. Ask about health tests of the parent dogs and review the results. Check whether common breed-related conditions have been tested for.

Tip 4 – Check the breeder

Always visit the breeder at home. A puppy should grow up with its mother and littermates. It is not a good sign if you cannot see the mother; the puppy may have come from a puppy mill in Eastern Europe and may have been taken away from its mother too early. Dogs can suffer from this for the rest of their lives and may develop behavioral problems. Also keep in mind: a pedigree certificate only says something about the puppy’s ancestry, not about the risk of hereditary diseases. A veterinarian can help assess whether a puppy has been bred responsibly. Pay attention to what the breeder asks you as well. A good breeder will ask questions about your situation and give honest advice about whether the puppy is suitable for you. Be very cautious if the breeder asks no questions or seems eager to sell the puppy quickly.

Tip 5 – Consider time, costs, and insurance

A puppy requires a lot of time and money. Large dogs eat more, some breeds cost more at the groomer, and certain breeds are difficult or even impossible to insure due to specific genetic conditions. Make an estimate of the costs for food, veterinary care, vaccinations, possible daycare or dog-walking services, and toys. Consider taking out pet insurance to cover unexpected veterinary expenses.

Tip 6 – Watch out!

No one who loves dogs wants to buy a puppy from a puppy mill. Doing so only keeps this unethical industry alive. Finally, here are some important warning signs. If you have doubts, do not buy the puppy—no matter how cute (or pitiful) it may seem!

• The puppy must be microchipped and vaccinated
• The passport and vaccination records must be correct (your vet can check them)
• The mother dog should be present during the visit
• Multiple litters at the same time are usually a bad sign
• Puppies that are too young or poorly cared for, have dirty eyes, diarrhea, or cough are warning signs
• If you are not allowed to visit the breeder at home and are asked to pick up the puppy elsewhere, something is wrong