In a recent feature by Karen Bush (Your Dog Magazine July 2003), some of the most commonly asked questions on "Finding a New Puppy" are answered.


Q: I'd like to have two puppies rather than just one - is it a good idea to get them at the same time so they can grow up together?

A: It is always a good idea to examine your motives in wanting to have two dogs: while there can undoubtedly be lots of benefits for all, do remember that all your expenses be doubled, but also will the amount of time you will need to commit to the puppies.

Taking on a second dog is not an alternative to taking them for exercise or interacting with them yourself, and you will also need to be prepared to spend extra time on training and doing things with them independently of each other as well as together.


Certainly if you do decide to go ahead with this plan, then it would be best to get just puppy and then wait until he/she is a little older, settled into a routine and with the basic training well established before introducing a second one into your household.

Do not be tempted to get two from the same litter as they may tend to bond more closely with each other than with you, which could make future training difficult.


Q: What does "KC Registered" mean?

A: The Kennel Club will register any little pups as long as both parents are KC Registered. While KC Registration provides evidence that the pup is pure-bred, it is not a guarantee that he/she is from a reputable breeder, or even that he/she is a happy, healthy example of the bred - it's up to you to carry out the appropriate check in these respects.

If a pup is described as being "KC Registered" do check that this is with the breed register as the Kennel Club also runs a "Working Register" on which any dog, including cross-breeds, may be registered.


Q: How can I ensure that I am not sold a pup with an hereditary ailment?

A: There are a number of hereditary diseases which can affect certain breeds. When researching the dog of your choice (the basics of which can be done at www.k9capers.com/UK_dog_breeds.asp ) you should also try and find out if there are any particular health problems known to be associated with the breed. The breed club or breeder should be able to provide helpful information about this, and should also be able to tell you whether any screening schemes are available - explaining what they are and how they work. You can also check with your local vet or via the K9 Capers Free Advice section of this site at www.k9capers.com/training_advice.asp)


Q: What ailments are screened for?

A: The Kennel Club and BVA (British Veterinary Associated) currently run health screening schemes for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and inherited eye diseases. These assist conscientious breeders in identifying the best choices of parent when breeding, resulting in offspring which are less likely to be affected.

You can get more detailed information on these screening programmes by checking out The Kennel Club website at www.the-kennel-club.org.uk.



Q: What is the best age to get a puppy and why?

A: Generally, the breeder will advise you when the puppy you have chosen is ready for collection - usually when he/she is eight weeks old. At this age, he/she will be right in the middle of the most sensitive period of behavioural development, and his experiences between now and 14 - 16 weeks old will affect the way he behaves as an adult. During this time, it is important to expose him to as many different people, animals, experiences and environments as possible.

The longer you leave it before you collect him, then the less time you will have in which to do this as by 14 - 16 weeks of age this window of opportunity is beginning to close. You should also check with your vet, or your local K9 Capers as soon as you get the new arrival about Puppy Socialization Classes (Puppy Parties) as these are a great way to learn about bringing up your new pup and let him experience many new things at the same time.

You should however continue to ensure a range of experiences beyond this point, since there will still be a need for socialization and habituation throughout his first year.


Q: Can you recommend any good general reference books and videos for someone thinking of getting a puppy?

A: There are plenty of good books and videos to choose from - a few you might like to try for starters include:
"Before You Get Your Puppy" - Ian Dunbar (James and Kenneth) - £5.95
"The Perfect Puppy" - Gwen Bailey (Hamlyn) - £12.99
"K.I.S.S. guide to living with a dog" - Bruce Fogle (Dorling Kindersley) - £12.99
"The Doglopaedia" J.M. Evans and Kay White (Ringpress) - £8.95
"Complete Puppy Care Fore All Breeds" - Colin Tennant (VIDEO) -

If you are thinking of taking on a rescue dog, you may also find the following books of interest:
"Second Chance - Living With A Rescued Dog" - Judy and Larry Elsdon (Ringpress) - £5.99
"The Rescue Dog" - Gwen Bailey (Hamlyn) - £9.99

Later on, depending on your interests, you will find there are lots of specialized publications on subjects such as breeds, training, care and various canine activities which you might like to add to your bookshelf as well.

All the books listed should be available in good bookshops or online at a discounted price through Amazon.co.uk via the K9 Capers Pet Shop at www.k9capers.com/shop


Q: I am thinking of getting a rescue dog and understand that I will need to be "Home-Checked"; what does this involve?

Before releasing and dog, a good rescue organization will not only interview prospective new owners and ask them to fill out a questionnaire, but will also insist on a home check being carried out by one of their staff or volunteers. This is to ensure that you really can offer a suitable environment, and it will be required even if you either currently own a dog, or have done so in the past.

During the visit, you may be asked further questions such as where the dog will sleep, where and how often you will exercise him, and about your daily routine so do ensure you have thought these things through beforehand.

Once you have your dog, some organisations will also carry out a further follow-up home check several weeks later to ensure that you are both settling in happily together and, if needed, to offer any advice on any initial teething problems you may have. Although it is not compulsory, most organisations will be pleased to receive the occasional update and picture letting them know how you are both getting on.


Q: What is a licensed Breeder?

A: A licensed breeder is someone who has been granted a licence to breed dogs by their local authority; this is a legal requirement for anyone who breeds more than four litters a year.


Q: Does being licensed mean that such breeders are reputable?

A: Although many such breeders are genuine enthusiasts, don't automatically assume that possession of a licence means that a person is a good or reputable breeder, or even that the pups have been reared under ideal conditions.

Whether the breeder is licensed or not, the same golden rule applies - choose your breeder with as much care as you would in selecting your your pup.


Q: What sort of costs can a new puppy owner expect initially?

A: You should make a shopping list of everything you are going to need including services you will need to pay for such as veterinary health checks. You can use this to research the prices of everything before you actually get your puppy, to ensure that you really can afford to take him on.

Although some of the expenses will be "one-offs" such as neutering, or for items that will only need replacing occasionally such as grooming brushes, othrs will be regular outgoings such as food, insurance and annual vaccinations.

Pricing everything up will give you a better idea of how much a dog is going to cost to keep in the long-term. Over his entire lifetime, this expenditure has been estimated to be in the region of £5,000 - and in many cases can be considerable more!

Some of the basic essentials to include on your list are:
Bed - £4.99 to £29.99
Bedding - £3.99
Food & Water Bowls - £1.99 each
Lead & Collar - £5.99
ID Tags - £4.65
Soft Grooming Brush - £2.99
Dog Loo - £21.99
Simple Solution Stain & Odour Remover - £4.99
Poo Bags - £1.49
Anti Chewing Spray - £3.99
Toys - from 99peach but expect to spend between £10 and £20
Food - £5 to £10 a week
Treats from 99p
Training £5 to £100 a month
First Aid Kit £19.99
Annual Vaccinations - £15 - £30
Veterinary Health Checks -£20
Neutering - £110
Worming - £5 per dose
Insurance - £160pa
Puppy Pen or Indoor Crate - £35 to £90

Of course all prices given are just guides although you should find most products at these prices or below in the K9 Capers On-Line Pet Shop at www.k9capers.com/shop and please bear in mind that veterinary services can vary considerable between practices. Also, don't forget to add on the little extras like trips to the grooming salon, and weekend stays at K9 Capers when you are away on holiday. There may also be a few household items that need replacing during the first year as damages and chewed tea towels are inevitable.

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