One in five puppy buyers no longer have their pet two years later

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Nearly one-fifth of people – 19 per cent – who bought a puppy in the past two years no longer have their dog, according to new RSPCA figures.

The RSPCA believes this is largely down to people letting their heart rule their head when it comes to buying a puppy, and failing to prepare themselves for the practical commitment and cost of owning a dog.

Statistics from a new survey commissioned by the RSPCA reveal that nearly a quarter of the owners (24 per cent) who bought a pure-bred puppy in the past two years based their decision mainly on appearance, while a massive 56 per cent of buyers did not see the puppy with its mother before they bought it.

The survey also reveals that many people buying a puppy do a minimal amount of research. More than 60 per cent of people who bought a puppy in the past two years only visited one litter of puppies before deciding on the one they wanted, while a shocking 40 per cent of those who bought a puppy spent one week or less researching their purchase.

Claire Calder, a senior scientific officer at the RSPCA, said: “Sadly far too many people are living with the consequences of buying a puppy on impulse. A cute puppy can be hard to resist, but the result of not looking beyond the cute-factor can be the tragic death of a much loved pet, hundreds of pounds spent on vet bills or the emotional impact of having to part with a puppy that was simply the wrong choice for your family’s lifestyle.”

The new survey suggests the shocking figure that three per cent of puppies bought in the past two years have already died or been put to sleep, and more than a third (36 per cent) had experienced health problems.

A full list of advice for potential puppy owners, and what to look out for when looking for a new pet dog, is also available on www.getpuppysmart.com.

Tips include:

• Do your homework to match the right dog with your home, family and lifestyle and that you can afford the long-term costs.
• Phone ahead before visiting any puppies and know the right questions to ask.
• Don’t buy a puppy straight away – go home and take time to consider your choice and visit it at least twice.
• Always choose a puppy based on its likely health and temperament and not just its looks – a healthy puppy is much better than a pretty one.
• Never be tempted to buy a puppy because you feel sorry for it – another will only be bred to replace it.