Too Many People Buy Puppies Randomly

Since one in five puppy buyers no longer have their pet two years later, the RSPCA launched its new Get Puppy Smart campaign, which includes evidence-based guidance on buying a puppy by the Animal Welfare and Behavior research group.

RSPCA figures warn that 19% of people who bought a puppy in the past two years no longer have their dog.

They explain that people should be prepared for the practical commitment and costs of owning a dog, before actually buying one.

But it looks like 24% of owners who bought a pure-bred puppy based their decision on looks, and 56% didn't even see the puppy with its mother before buying it.

The survey was conducted by the University of Bristol's Animal Welfare and Behavior research group, and revealed that most people do a minimal amount of research before getting a dog.

Over 60% of newly dog owners in the past two years only visited one litter of puppies before deciding on the one they wanted, and 40% of those who bought a puppy spent one week or less looking for a dog.

“Sadly far too many people are living with the consequences of buying a puppy on impulse,” said Claire Calder, a senior scientific officer at the RSPCA.

“A cute puppy can be hard to resist, but the result of not looking beyond the cute-factor can be the tragic death of a much loved pet, hundreds of pounds spent on vet bills or the emotional impact of having to part with a puppy that was simply the wrong choice for your family’s lifestyle.

“The RSPCA’s Get Puppy Smart campaign aims to help prospective puppy buyers make the right decision by thinking about what type of dog best suits their lifestyle, the costs involved in having a dog, finding a good breeder and how to select a happy and healthy puppy.”

There are several things you need to know and do when looking for a pet, and these include doing your homework and choosing the appropriate dog for your house, family and lifestyle.

Make sure you need everything there is to know about your future dog, by preparing questions and phoning ahead before visiting any puppies.

Take your time and do not buy on impulse; also choose a puppy based on its health and temperament, and don't buy one just because you're feeling sorry for it.

“Dogs can live for around 15 years or more,” reminded Claire Calder, so “owning one is a big responsibility and a long-term commitment.

“The Get Puppy Smart campaign warns owners that the puppy will be their responsibility for many years, so time spent now researching the right puppy for you really is time well spent.”

The University of Bristol's Animal Welfare and Behavior research group produced this evidence-based guidance on buying puppies for the RSPCA, so that it could serve the Get Puppy Smart campaign.

At www.getpuppysmart.com you can see an animation that will guide you through the process of buying a puppy.