In the meantime ask if you can visit the parents to give you an idea of what the dog will be like as an adult.

Insist on seeing the mother interacting with the puppies and if possible, meet the father.

You should have easy access to the puppies and be able to handle them. Do not allow the breeder to show you just one puppy.

Make at least two visits to the breeder to view the puppies before the final collection.

If you are unsure about buying the right puppy, make enquiries with the local vet to see if he would be willing to attend the viewing to check the puppy for any visible health problems – this could save money and upset in the long term.

Request a written agreement that purchase is subject to a satisfactory examination by your veterinary surgeon within 48 hours of purchase.

Check that the puppies have regular access to human contact, ideally with more than one person.

Check that the facilities are clean and that the puppies appear alert and healthy.

Ensure all the relevant paperwork is available for inspection. This should include: the pedigree and registration papers, hereditary screening certificates of the parents (for example, hereditary eye disease or hip dysplasia if appropriate to the breed).

Next: When you visit the puppy