A reputable breeder will always show you the puppies available at their breeding kennel. This will allow you to see the environment that they have been reared in. Never agree to meet someone "at a location near you for convenience" as a reputable breeder would not suggest it.

If some time after buying a puppy, circumstances change and you can no longer keep it, will the person you purchased it from take it back? A reputable breeder will and may put this in writing for you.

A reputable breeder will also be able to provide you with information on the pedigree of your puppy and in a lot of cases will have both the mother and father there for you to see. If there are known health problems in the breed you have chosen e.g. Hips (Dysplasia) and Eyes (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) ensure that the sire and dam have been tested for these problems and have the required documentation. If the breeder does not have these certificates, it is probable that they have not been tested and hence the risk of an affected puppy is much more likely.

Reputable breeders often refer to themselves as ‘choosy' of prospective owners of their puppies. This is simply because they are concerned that their puppies should be going to someone that has the right sort of home environment (size of garden/children/time to exercise) with an understanding of the needs and requirements of that breed. A reputable breeder will probably interview you as much as you interview them.

When you collect your puppy from the breeder, you should be given a pedigree certificate, a Kennel Club registration an insurance certificate, which is free for the first six weeks.

Hunger is a dog's natural state. It is the driving force of many of its activities. If a dog has enough mental and physical stimulation, it may balance its energy consumption and expenditure, but it is rare that a dog has such a natural life.

Obesity is a common problem in dogs because their lives are not active enough.

Remember, your dog depends on you to provide it with the right quantities and type of food to maintain a healthy body and efficient immune system.

What it needs will vary according to its age, sex, size, body condition, level of activity, personality and state of health.

• Train when your dog is most alert, twice each day for a short time.
• Start training in quiet locations.
• Carry food rewards with you.
• Only permit your dog outdoors when it wears identification.
• Keep on lead until you are sure your dog will return to you.
• Dogs can learn right from wrong but will only be confused if you are not consistent.
• Remember   The first and most important lesson is to teach your dog to walk obediently by your side wearing a collar and lead.