Buying a dog and responsible dog ownership

Getting a dog is a big decision. You can get a dog from a breeder, animal shelter or private sale, and local councils may sell stray or unwanted dogs. There are responsibilities and time, money and commitment are required.

Buying a dog

It is a good idea to work out how much it will cost to keep a dog, so you can make sure you can afford to care for it. Things you are likely to spend the most money on during your dog's lifetime (10-15 years) include:

• vet's bills such as vaccinations and neutering
• insurance - in case it's involved in an accident or becomes ill
• food
• paying for your dog to stay in a kennel when you're away

Before you take your dog home you must have obtained a dog licence from your local council.

Responsible dog ownership

If you own a dog you have responsibilities towards it, your neighbours and the public. Find out what these are, where to get the information about dog care and training.

If you own a dog, by law, you must look after it properly. If you don't, you could be fined and banned from owning animals.

You are responsible for:

• making sure your dog wears a collar with your name and address on it when out in a public place, so your dog can be returned to you if lost
• making sure the licence disc is attached to the collar when the dog is in a public place, so your dog can be returned to you if lost
• cleaning up after your dog in public places
• keeping your dog under control in a public place

Micro-chipping, dog collars and collar tags

Micro-chipping

From April 2012 dogs must be micro-chipped before licensing.

Dog collars and collar tags

Dogs other than working dogs must wear a collar with the name and address of the keeper inscribed on it, or on a plate attached to the collar. Dogs must also wear a coloured collar tag or disc showing that the dog is licensed. This coloured licence identification tag is issued by the council.

Failure to ensure that your dog wears the appropriate collar identification is an offence which could result in a maximum fine of £1,000.

Collar tags are not needed for:

• a dog which is a member of a pack of hounds
• a dog being judged in a competition
• a dog is being used for any sporting purposes, the capture or destruction of vermin or for the purpose of driving or tending sheep or cattle