Bringing a dog into your life is an exciting decision, but it's crucial to take your time and make an informed choice. This guide will help you navigate the process of buying a dog responsibly in Ireland, ensuring you find a healthy, well-cared-for companion.
Take Your Time
Finding the right dog is not a decision to rush. Take time to research breeds, visit multiple breeders, and ensure you're fully prepared for the commitment. A dog is a 10-15 year responsibility - a few extra weeks of searching is worth finding the perfect match.
Legal Requirements & Essential Checks
Critical Legal Requirements:
- Minimum Age - 8 Weeks: It is illegal to sell or buy puppies under 8 weeks old in Ireland. Puppies need this time with their mother for proper development and socialisation.
- Microchipping: All dogs must be microchipped and registered. Ensure you receive the microchip certificate and transfer the ownership.
- Dog Licence: You must obtain a dog licence within 30 days of acquiring your dog.
Essential Checks When Viewing Dogs
For Puppies - MUST See the Mother
If you're buying a puppy, you MUST insist on seeing the puppy with its mother. This is non-negotiable.
- The mother should be present and interacting naturally with the puppies
- She should appear healthy, well-cared for, and have a great temperament
- Be wary if excuses are made about why the mother isn't available
- Ideally, see the father too if he's owned by the breeder
Ask for Breeder ID
Professional breeders should have proper identification:
- Ask to see their Dog Breeding Establishment (DBE) licence if applicable
- Local authority registered breeders will have a registration number
- IKC (Irish Kennel Club) breeders will have IKC affiliation
- Be cautious of breeders who can't provide any form of identification
Research Before You Buy
Know Your Breed
Different breeds have vastly different needs, temperaments, and health considerations. Before committing to a specific breed:
- Research exercise requirements and energy levels
- Understand grooming needs and costs
- Learn about breed-specific health issues
- Consider size at maturity and space requirements
Not sure which breed suits your lifestyle? Use our Interactive Breed Selector Tool to find breeds that match your living situation and preferences.
Questions to Ask Every Seller/Breeder
Health & History:
- Can I see health test results for the parents?
- What vaccinations has the puppy had?
- Has the puppy been wormed? When?
- Are there any known health issues in the bloodline?
- Can I have contact details for your vet?
Documentation & Support:
- Will I receive a sales contract?
- Do you provide ongoing support after purchase?
- What's your return policy if issues arise?
- Can I see the pedigree papers (if applicable)?
- How have the puppies been socialised?
Recommended Platforms to Find Dogs
Red Flags to Avoid
Be Cautious If:
- No mother present: Seller won't let you see the puppy with its mother
- Multiple litters: Many different breeds/litters available at once
- Pushy sales tactics: Pressure to buy immediately or take deposit
- Meeting locations: Wants to meet in car parks or deliver the puppy
- Under 8 weeks: Trying to sell puppies younger than 8 weeks
- No paperwork: Can't provide microchip cert or vaccination records
- Cash only: Refuses any traceable payment methods
- Poor conditions: Dirty environment or unhealthy looking dogs
Finalising Your Purchase
Before Taking Your Dog Home:
- Get a written contract - Document the sale properly
- Receive all documentation - Microchip cert, vaccination records, pedigree papers
- Confirm microchip details - Verify the chip number matches the certificate
- Get dietary information - Know current food brand and feeding schedule
- Exchange contact details - For follow-up questions and support
- Arrange vet check - Book appointment within 48 hours of purchase
Ready to Bring Your Dog Home?
Once you've found your perfect companion, visit our guides on:
Frequently Asked Questions
Prices vary significantly based on breed, pedigree, and age. Mixed breeds typically cost €200-€500, while popular breeds range from €500-€1,500. Pedigree dogs with champion bloodlines can cost €1,500-€3,000 or more. Remember to budget for ongoing costs: food (€30-€60/month), insurance (€20-€50/month), and annual vet care (€200-€400).
This is a major red flag. Reputable breeders will always show you the puppies with their mother. If excuses are made (mother is at the vet, aggressive with strangers, etc.), walk away. This often indicates illegal puppy farming or that the puppies were bred elsewhere. The only exception might be if you're adopting from a rescue where the mother genuinely isn't available.
Not all dog sellers require a breeding licence - it depends on how many litters they produce annually. However, anyone selling dogs should be able to demonstrate responsible breeding practices, provide health records, and show proper care for their animals. Focus on the conditions, health of the dogs, and transparency of the seller rather than just licensing.
Both have advantages. Puppies allow you to shape their training and socialisation from the start, but require significant time, patience, and training. Adult dogs often come house-trained with established temperaments, making them ideal for less experienced owners or busy households. Consider your lifestyle, experience level, and available time when deciding.
This varies by breed. Common tests include hip and elbow scoring for larger breeds, eye tests for breeds prone to eye conditions, and heart clearances for breeds with cardiac issues. Research your chosen breed's common health problems and ask specifically about relevant tests. Reputable breeders will volunteer this information and show you certificates.
Ask the seller to scan the microchip in your presence and verify the number matches the certificate. You can check registration on databases like Fido.ie, Animark.ie, or Petlog. Any vet or pet shop can scan a microchip for free. Once you buy the dog, immediately update the registration to your details - this is a legal requirement and crucial if your dog ever goes missing.
