Thinking about buying a puppy or buying a dog?

There are many important things to consider when purchasing a pedigree puppy or pedigree dog and our Find a Puppy Service will give you the right information to help you find your new best friend.

Before buying a puppy or a dog, ask yourself:

  • Can I afford to have a dog, taking into account not only the initial cost of purchasing the dog, but also the ongoing expenses such as food, veterinary fees and canine insurance? As a very rough estimate a dog can cost £25 a week.
  • Can I make a lifelong commitment to a dog? - A dog’s average life span is 12 years.
  • Is my home big enough to house a dog?
  • Do I really want to exercise a dog every day?
  • Will there be someone at home for a dog? - dogs get lonely just like humans.
  • Will I find time to train, groom and generally care for a dog?
  • Will I be able to answer YES to these questions every day of the year?

If you have answered ‘no’ to any of the above, you should think again before buying a dog.

If you have been able to answer ‘yes’ to all the questions you can follow the four steps below to assist you in finding your perfect companion.


The following four steps will assist you in:

Step 1 - Choosing the right puppy/dog - this section offers advice on choosing a suitable puppy or dog, whether it be a pedigree puppy or adult dog or a crossbreed. It now includes information on rescue societies and our new Find a Rescue Dog search.

Step 2 - Finding the right pedigree dog breed - every pedigree dog breed has its own characteristics and if you match these with your personality and lifestyle, it is much more likely that you will have a happy and fulfilling relationship with your dog.

Step 3 - Finding the right breeder - including the Kennel Club Accredited Breeder Scheme

Step 4 - Find a Puppy - this section includes the Kennel Club's Find a Puppy search and information about puppy dealers.