Buying a new puppy is a massive decision and a huge commitment. It is important to do your research to determine which breeds are most likely to suit you and your family, as well as to ensure that you are able to meet the needs of your potential new addition. Our vets will be more than happy discuss the likely suitability of breeds you may be considering. Once you have decided upon what sort of dog you would like to get it is important not to rush the process and look carefully at where you get your new puppy from, so as to try and ensure you are taking home a happy and healthy pet. Veterinary and animal welfare associations have devised a puppy contract (https://puppycontract.org.uk/)to help prospective owners understand what they should be asking, to ensure they are getting a pet that is well bred. Hopefully with this guidance you can avoid inadvertently buying a poorly bred puppy e.g. from a puppy farm or illegally imported, which are sadly often under age, in poor health and, devastatingly, some of which do not recover.