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Responsible dog ownership

Buying or adopting a dog

Last updated
13 Feb 2026

Owning a dog is a big responsibility. Dogs can live for many years and need daily care, exercise and attention.

Before you buy or adopt a dog

Make sure you can meet legal, financial and welfare responsibilities of owning a dog.

Take time to research before you buy or adopt a dog. Choose a breed and size that suits your home, family and lifestyle.

Some dogs need more grooming, training or exercise than others. Some breeds are more likely to develop health problems.

Costs of dog ownership

Owning a dog can be expensive and is a long-term financial commitment.

Costs you’ll need to think about include:

  • food
  • vet bills
  • vaccinations
  • pet insurance
  • grooming
  • paying for your dog to stay in a kennel if you're away

How to buy or adopt a dog

You can get a dog from a breeder, animal shelter or private sale. Always see a puppy or dog in person before agreeing to buy or adopt it.

Make a list of questions for the current owner before seeing the dog. It’s important to ask about:

  • the dog’s medical history – for example, any genetic or medical issues it has
  • vaccinations and deworming treatments
  • its behaviour and temperament
  • the dog breeder’s licence – anyone breeding 3 or more litters of puppies in a year needs a dog breeding licence

If you buy a puppy

Puppies should stay with their mother until they’re at least 8 weeks old. Owners should not sell or give them away before then.

Make sure you see a puppy with its mother and littermates before agreeing to buy it. You should look at how the puppy behaves with other puppies, people and its environment.

Microchipping rules

All dogs over 8 weeks old must be microchipped with their owner’s contact details.

When you get a dog or puppy from someone else, the dog should either:

  • already be microchipped and registered with the current owner
  • have a microchip exemption certificate

You must update your new dog’s microchip with your details as soon as possible. You’re expected to keep these details up to date if they change.

Find out how to update your dog’s microchip.

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