So you have decided it’s time to get a puppy, now what?

Choosing the Right Puppy: Make a Thoughtful Decision for a 12–15 Year Commitment

Bringing a new puppy home is always an exciting time — one I know very well. I’ve had many puppies over the years and have even bred a few litters myself. The thrill never fades, even for a professional dog trainer.

Before making such a long commitment, I always give the decision serious thought. Here’s some insight to help you choose wisely and avoid common pitfalls.

The Risks of Impulse Decisions

As a self-employed dog trainer, I’ve helped many people with their new puppies. I’ve also seen the heartache caused by spontaneous or poorly informed choices.

We’re in an era where “designer breeds” are fashionable. Some of these dogs can no longer mate or give birth naturally and require artificial insemination and caesarean sections. As a purist, I believe dogs should be able to function as nature intended. While veterinary intervention is sometimes necessary, breeding dogs that routinely need medical assistance for basic functions comes at a high cost — breathing problems, mobility issues, and a lifetime of health complications for the dog and financial/emotional stress for the owner.

Purebred vs Crossbred Dogs

Science clearly shows that well-bred purebred dogs with proper genetic testing offer the best chance of a healthy animal. I’ve personally seen crossbred dogs born with major genetic defects.

I once walked out of a university lecture where a professor tried to justify irresponsible crossbreeding without any genetic testing. Breeding any dog — purebred or crossbred — without thorough health screening is irresponsible.

When I see a well-bred, healthy dog, I’m reminded how magnificent a properly bred animal can be.

Temperament Matters Most

Some breeders focus only on looks and conformation while paying little attention to temperament. This is dangerous — poor temperament is one of the leading reasons dogs are euthanised.

Responsible breeders test for genetic confidence and breed for stable, balanced temperaments. They know the parents, grandparents, and often further back in the bloodlines.

Key Questions Before Choosing a Breed

There are hundreds of purebred breeds, so it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Here are important factors to consider:

• Your lifestyle and goals: Do you want a personal protection dog, a family companion, a running buddy, or a couch potato?
• Energy levels and grooming needs: Are you prepared for high-energy breeds or dogs that require regular grooming?
• Size: Small, medium, or large?
• Experience level: Do you have the time and knowledge to handle a strong-willed or high-drive breed?

Many people choose a breed because they had one as a child, only to be surprised when their new dog is “nothing like the last one.” Every dog is an individual.

Important note on protection dogs: The desire for home and personal security is one of the top reasons people get dogs today. I’ve had personal protection dogs for over 20 years and currently have three. They are incredibly rewarding, but they require proper training and experienced handling. I’ll cover this topic in more detail in a future post.

Function Should Dictate Form

As one experienced trainer once told me: “Function should dictate form, not the reverse.” Choose a dog based on what you need it to do, not just how it looks.

And remember — all dogs need training and socialisation, regardless of breed or size. No breed is automatically “great with kids” without proper upbringing. Dogs that aren’t trained will make their own rules.

Price vs Quality

Higher purchase price usually reflects higher quality — especially with purebred dogs from responsible breeders who invest heavily in health testing, hip and elbow scoring, and genetic screening.

Cheap puppies often come with expensive problems later. Do your homework. Ask breeders:

• Are the parents health tested (hips, elbows, breed-specific issues)?
• Can you meet the parents?
• What health guarantees are offered?

Helpful resources include websites like the Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD).

Final Advice

Speak to your vet and a professional dog trainer for unbiased opinions (avoid breed-biased advice).

Knowledge is power. Take the time to make an informed decision. Your future best friend — and your family — will thank you for it.