Overview
According to the Singapore Kennel Club, there were an estimated 100,000 pet dogs in Singapore in 2021. This number is expected to grow to 150,000 by 2025, as more Singaporeans turn to dogs for companionship and emotional support.
If you’re thinking about getting a puppy in Singapore, there are a few things you need to know. First, you’ll need to find a reputable breeder or pet store. Second, you’ll need to choose the right puppy for your lifestyle and needs. Third, you’ll need to prepare your home and family for the new arrival.
Where to Find Puppies in Singapore
There are a few different places where you can find puppies in Singapore.
- Breeders: The best way to find a healthy, well-bred puppy is to go through a reputable breeder. Breeders typically specialize in a particular breed of dog, and they can provide you with information about the breed’s temperament, health, and care requirements.
- Pet stores: Pet stores are another option for finding puppies. However, it’s important to do your research before buying a puppy from a pet store. Some pet stores sell puppies from puppy mills, which are large-scale breeding facilities that often keep dogs in inhumane conditions.
- Animal shelters: Animal shelters are a great place to find a puppy that needs a home. Shelters typically have a variety of puppies available for adoption, including mixed breeds and purebreds.
How to Choose the Right Puppy
Once you’ve found a reputable breeder or pet store, you’ll need to choose the right puppy for your lifestyle and needs. Here are a few things to consider:
- Temperament: The temperament of a puppy is one of the most important things to consider. You’ll want to choose a puppy that has a temperament that matches your own. For example, if you’re a laid-back person, you’ll want to choose a puppy that is also laid-back.
- Health: It’s also important to choose a puppy that is healthy. Ask the breeder or pet store about the puppy’s health history, and make sure that the puppy has been vaccinated and dewormed.
- Size: The size of a puppy is another important consideration. You’ll want to choose a puppy that is the right size for your home and lifestyle. For example, if you live in a small apartment, you’ll want to choose a small breed dog.
- Energy level: The energy level of a puppy is also something to consider. You’ll want to choose a puppy that has an energy level that matches your own. For example, if you’re an active person, you’ll want to choose a puppy that is also active.
Preparing Your Home and Family for a Puppy
Once you’ve chosen a puppy, you’ll need to prepare your home and family for the new arrival. Here are a few things to do:
- Puppy-proof your home: Make sure that your home is safe for a puppy by removing any potential hazards, such as electrical cords, poisonous plants, and small objects that the puppy could choke on.
- Stock up on supplies: You’ll need to stock up on a few essential supplies before bringing your puppy home, such as food, water bowls, a collar, leash, and a bed.
- Introduce your puppy to your family: It’s important to introduce your puppy to your family slowly and carefully. Let your family members meet the puppy in a neutral location, such as a park, and allow the puppy to approach them at its own pace.
Owning a Puppy
Owning a puppy is a big responsibility, but it can also be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. Here are a few tips for owning a puppy:
- Provide plenty of love and attention: Puppies need lots of love and attention, so make sure you’re prepared to give them plenty of both.
- Train your puppy: Training your puppy is essential for teaching them good manners and keeping them safe. Start training your puppy as soon as you bring them home.
- Socialize your puppy: Socializing your puppy is important for helping them become well-rounded and friendly adults. Introduce your puppy to a variety of people, animals, and situations.
- Take your puppy to the vet regularly: Taking your puppy to the vet regularly is important for keeping them healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations.
Additional Tips
Here are a few additional tips for finding the perfect puppy in Singapore:
- Do your research: Before you start looking for a puppy, do your research and learn about the different breeds of dogs. This will help you choose a puppy that is the right fit for your lifestyle and needs.
- Visit multiple breeders or pet stores: Once you’ve done your research, visit multiple breeders or pet stores to compare prices and puppies. This will help you find the best puppy for you at the best price.
- Be patient: Finding the perfect puppy can take time. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t find the right puppy right away. Keep looking and eventually you’ll find the perfect match.
Resources
Here are a few resources that can help you find a puppy in Singapore:
- Singapore Kennel Club: https://www.singaporekennelclub.org/
- Animal Lovers League: https://www.animalloversleague.org.sg/
- Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA): https://www.spca.org.sg/
