I d like to buy a puppy, where should I start

A.� Spend some time thinking about exactly what you have to offer the puppy and what you expect from it. It's important to consider what kind of dog you'd like the puppy to grow into: a large or small dog; long-haired or short-haired; one that needs lots of exercise Make sure you have enough time and space for your new puppy.

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Q.� Should I buy a pedigree or mongrel puppy

A.� There are advantages and disadvantages with both. Pedigree puppies grow into more or less predictable dogs so you can select the breed that suits you best. There are books which list the various breeds of dogs physical and temperament characteristics.

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Because of intensive breeding practices some pedigrees have a tendency to inherit medical conditions such as hip displasia. Again, these can be found in books about your chosen breed.

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Mongrel puppies can grow into any size and shape of dog, it's much more of a lottery.

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Mongrels, because they are a mixture of pedigree breeds, however far back, may also inherit some medical conditions that pedigree dogs are more susceptible to. But because you can't always tells what mixture of breeds your mongrel is made up of it is harder to work out what hereditary disease they may suffer from.

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Mongrel puppies are often easier and cheaper to acquire than pedigrees, but, they are just as expensive to keep.

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Q.� Should I buy a male or female puppy

A.� It isn't true that bitches are 'more faithful' than dogs, but they may be less likely to try to dominate the family.

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Q.� Where should I buy a puppy

A.��Always see a puppy's mother, and other relatives if possible, which often isn't possible with a dealer or pet shop. If you're buying a pedigree puppy then avoid unregistered ones.

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Q.� What should I look for when choosing a puppy from the litter

A.� Look at the whole litter, not just the puppy that you were instantly drawn to, and check for general health and level of care. Ask the current owner questions about what has happened to the puppies so far: have they been wormed, have they met children, have they heard household appliances

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You can gain some insight into the puppy's temperament at this stage also: 'pushy' puppies are often dominant, shy ones may be nervous.

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Got a question on pet selection Click here to ask. Or why not have a look at this selection of questions and answers about strange doggy habits.

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by Lisa Cardy