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How should people go about buying a puppy?

The RSPCA has the following top tips:

1. Always see the puppy with its mother in the place where the puppy was bred.

2. Find out as much as you can about the puppy’s background.

3. Always ask to see a vaccination card - puppies should receive their first vaccinations before they leave their mother.

Other advice includes:

- Never buy from an unlicensed breeding establishment.

- If unsure, ask to see the breeder's licence.

- Avoid adverts offering lots of different breeds for sale.

- Insist on seeing the puppy with its mother where it was raised.

- Never buy a pup sold straight from a car boot or at an open-air event like a market.

Look for reputable breeders

Other experts recommend potential buyers contact the relevant breed societies in order to find a reputable breeder.

Most good breeders will have the mother and litter within their own home.

They also say people should be able to handle and play with the puppies in order to assess their character before buying.

Above all welfare organisations warn never to buy a puppy simply because you feel sorry for it.

The dog you take home will simply be replaced by another and all you will be doing is keeping the rogue breeder in business.

Other basic advice

The People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) suggest the following basic points should be considered before buying any dog:

* Remember that this is a lifelong commitment - ask yourself if you are prepared for this responsibility.

* Dogs need time and attention - if you work long hours, a dog is probably not the pet for you.

Collie dog - fit and healthy.

* Dogs need space - think whether your home is big enough.

* Dog food and vet's bills are a regular cost - consider whether you can afford this.

* When choosing a puppy, a healthy pup will also be inquisitive, alert and playful with a glossy coat.

* It is better to wait for the ideal canine partner rather than to choose impulsively, so you may have to save up or be on a waiting list.

Be alert to problems

The Kennel Club suggest the following precautions when buying a puppy:

Always buy dogs from reputable dealers.

* Always buy from reputable breeders - contact the Kennel Club for breeder details.

* Never buy if you feel sorry for a puppy - they may be ill.

* If you suspect ill-treatment on behalf of a breeder, report the breeder to the local authority or RSPCA.

* Assess the state of the house or premises where the dog is raised.