What to Consider before Getting a Puppy

How old is your dog?

Pre-Puppy

What’s better than puppies? That’s right: your own puppy. So, what do you need to know before you take the plunge into pet parenthood?

0-2 months

Welcome to the world little one. It’s all grow-grow-grow for your puppy right now, so there’s many things to prepare.

2-3 months

Your puppy is ready to come home and turn your world upside down. It’s time to put your preparation into practice – and remember to take it all in!

3-6 months

You’re entering a period of immense growth, lots of learning and new adventures. Bring on the play date with the big wide world!

6-12 months

Your fur-baby is nearing adulthood. Can you see their grown self coming through? Sigh…they grow up so fast, don’t they?

12-18 months

Your puppy has turned one and they might not be so little anymore. Make sure to book their first annual check-up.

18 months - 3 years

Your dog is one an established family member now. Enjoy who they have become and the bond you now share at this special stage.

3 - 8 years

Your dog is a full-grown adult now. They understand where their place is in your home and the wider world.

8+ years

Just like many senior citizens, senior dogs have some extra needs. Learn to look after your best friend and support their health as they grow older.

Are you thinking about getting a puppy? Before you jump into puppy parenthood, there are some things to consider to make sure it's a peaceful transition.

5 Questions to Ask before Getting a Puppy

Getting a new puppy is a lifelong commitment, and you need to be sure you are ready for all that involves.

1. What do you need or want in a puppy?

You will need to research breeds before getting your puppy, and not all breeds suit all lifestyles. Before you get a puppy, ask yourself:

Do you live in an apartment or have a yard?
How much exercise are you willing to do?
What are common health issues?
What are the grooming needs?
Get a pup from a breeder or rescue?

2. How much time do you have to spend on the puppy?

Having a pet takes up a lot of your time, especially a puppy, because they need to be trained and socialised. But even once you have trained and socialised your puppy, you still need to be able to spend time with them, exercise them and keep them happy and healthy.

3. Have you considered the costs?

Puppies come with regular costs, including food, treats, toys, grooming and other fun things. They also need yearly vaccinations and health check-ups as well as flea, tick and worming treatment.

Unexpected costs can also pop up which you can budget for by putting some savings away. You could also consider pet insurance but make sure to research what is covered.

4. What about your household?

Unless you live alone and own your own home, you need to make sure everyone in your house is on board with the puppy. Understanding how a puppy impacts your home and how changes to the household affect your puppy will make for a happier life.

5. Does your lifestyle suit a puppy?

What sort of lifestyle do you have? If you are travelling all the time or working all the time, you may not be in the best place to get a puppy right now. If you are home a lot now, will this change in the future? Make sure to consider how this change will impact your puppy.

Puppies bring much joy and happiness but are also a lifetime responsibility.

If you are ready to take the time, do the research and make the changes, then you are prepared for a puppy. Now it's time to remember the benefits that welcoming a new puppy into your home will bring!