Dogs are wonderful companions. This guide has been created to help
you make the right decisions for you and your potential new best friend.
Click below to get started.
Being Prepared
Being Prepared
Being Prepared
- Being in the know from the get go -
Before getting a dog it’s important to consider what is involved in being a responsible owner and to decide whether you’ll be able to meet all your dog’s needs throughout their lifetime. Dogs are wonderful companions but owning one is a long-term commitment, so make sure you are ready.
- Do I want a puppy or an adult dog?
- Can I cover all the financial costs of owning a dog, beyond just the purchase price, including food, bedding, toys and veterinary check-ups and treatment including emergencies?
- Is my home safe, secure and suitable for a dog?
- Do I have time to train and socialise a dog?
- Will I be able to provide them with enough company so they don’t get lonely or bored? A dog that doesn’t receive enough attention is unlikely to become a social and well-behaved pet.
- Do I have time to walk and play with a dog every day?
- Am I ready to make a 15-year commitment?
Your local RSPCA or vet can give you more information about what it takes to raise a polite and well-balanced puppy and care for it throughout its lifetime.
If you think you are ready to welcome a new puppy or dog into your life, then it is time to carefully consider what type of dog will suit you.
Different Types of Dog
Different Types of Dog
Different Types of Dog
- Which type of dog will suit you best? -
Just like us, every dog has its own unique personality, but their general temperament is strongly influenced by their genetics and early life experiences. In choosing your dog, think about what breed or type of dog will best suit your lifestyle.
- Am I looking for a calm, quiet dog that settles easily, or a more playful, active dog?
- Is a small, medium or large-sized dog best for me?
- Do I have time to groom a dog that needs frequent brushing?
- Am I aware of the particular health and welfare problems some breeds can have?
If you are interested in a particular breed of dog, be aware that different breeds are predisposed to different inherited disorders. Some dogs also have been bred for a particular ‘look’, resulting in exaggerated features that can lead to serious health problems. These conditions can cause dogs significant pain and suffering so be sure to find out about the problems that are known to occur in that specific breed or breed type.
If you do choose to get your dog from a breeder, ask what action they take to prevent inherited disorders and avoid exaggerated features in their dogs.
If you’re sure the type of dog you’re interested in will suit your lifestyle, and you understand any health risks, the next step is to think about where to get your dog!
Where to Get Your Dog
Where to Get Your Dog
Where to Get Your Dog
- Where will your poochy pal come from? -
When you’re looking for a new dog or puppy, visit your local RSPCA or other reputable animal welfare or rescue organisation first. At any time, the RSPCA has many different types and breeds of puppies and dogs, with a variety of colours and personalities, all available for adoption and looking for a good home.
If your local RSPCA or our national adoption website adoptapet.com.au don’t have what you are looking for on your first visit, keep checking - the right puppy or dog for you is likely to turn up soon.
If you can’t find the right dog or puppy for you there over time, then the next step is to find a good breeder. Regardless of how you find a breeder, (the internet, word of mouth, in a newspaper or magazine ad or any other way) it’s very important to ensure the puppy has not come from a puppy farm.
- Visited the place where the puppy was born?
- Met the mother dog (and father dog too, if he’s there) and checked they’re happy and healthy?
- Ensured the breeder provides a high standard of care and living conditions for all of their dogs?
Caring For Your Dog
Caring For Your Dog
Caring For Your Dog
- Being the best friend that you can be -
Introducing your new puppy or dog to your home, friends and family is a fun and exciting time. Before you bring your new pet home, be sure to read up on how to provide the best care for your new four-legged friend.
- Do I have a clean, comfortable, safe and secure home for my dog?
- Do I have food, bedding, dog toys and walking equipment ready?
- Have I organised where I will take my dog for training and to learn how to make friends?
- Have I located a veterinary clinic?
- Do I know about desexing, microchipping and registration requirements, vaccinations and preventative health care (such as worming, flea and tick prevention)?
This is the start of a happy friendship for both of you, so with the right research you can look forward to years of companionship together.
Be sure to download our printable Smart Puppy and Dog Buyer's Checklist and take it with you when go looking for your new puppy or dog.
If you'd like more information on caring for your dog, please check out our online Knowledgebase.