Are you ready to own a dog?
There’s a lot to think about, from time and finances, to lifestyle changes, yet 1 in 4 spend just two hours researching their decision.
Be Puppywise
If you're thinking about getting a dog there’s a lot to consider, which is why we’re encouraging people to Be Puppywise.
Thinking of getting a dog?
Learn how to Be Puppywise
Thousands each year inadvertently buy ‘cute’ puppies from rogue breeders on social media or online selling sites. Research undertaken as part of our Be Puppywise campaign found more than half of owners agree that social media influenced their puppy buying decision, with four in ten admitting they bought their puppy ‘because it was cute’*.
(*Research carried out by The Kennel Club, 2023)
We are here to help!
If you’re thinking about getting a puppy, you've come to the right place for all the information you need to help you along the way. While getting a puppy is an incredibly exciting time, there’s a lot to consider and it can be hard to know where to begin.
We want to help you and your puppy have the best start, so we’ve got all the information you need to learn how to buy a puppy responsibly, avoid rogue breeders trading online and Be Puppywise.
Useful resources
Take a look at our resources and learn how to Be Puppywise.
Are you ready for a dog?
Avoid puppy farmers
Rogue traders operating online can dupe unsuspecting owners, with 1 in 3 puppies found on social media suspected to have originated from a puppy farm.
Find an Assured Breeder
More than a quarter of puppy buyers admit they wouldn’t be able to spot a rogue breeder. Our Assured Breeder scheme is one way to identify breeders who are prioritising health and welfare.
Find a Puppy
Use our Find a Puppy service to discover the ideal four-legged friend for you. Search for puppies in your area and look out for health test badges, and Assured Breeder badges to see breeders we have inspected.
Getting a dog
3 in 10 get puppy buying information from social media, influencers or celebrities, over breed experts, vets or dog welfare organisations. Follow our essential guide to responsibly finding and caring for a new canine companion.
DNA testing
Our DNA Testing Services have been developed to promote responsible dog breeding and eradicate diseases, and allow you to better understand your dog’s genetics. Find out more about DNA testing here.