Best Behaviour and Training

Did you know most people put very much more thought into buying a car than they do into buying a dog? Isn't that crazy when you think, who is going to live in your house and probably with you for the next fifteen years.

It is so important to acquire your puppy or adult dog from the right source and choose the most appropriate breed for your family and lifestyle. Pre-Ownership Talks are held at the Westmorland Veterinary Group in Kendal and Kirkby Lonsdale. There is no charge for this service because we are passionate about getting the message out to potential new owners - get the right breed at the right age from the right place because it really does matter.

During the hour long consultation we discuss the merits of buying from a reputable breeder where puppies are born and raised in a family environment. Puppies should hear the washing machine, the telephone, children shouting etc from the moment their eyes and ears are open; these puppies adapt easily into their new home. Puppies bred in outside kennels and barns are isolated from these experiences and find the transition in to their new homes very traumatic; many of these puppies are permanently fearful often leading in the long term to aggression.

Advice is also given for the preparation of your new arrival such as sleeping arrangements (see download First Night), introductions to older pets, house training, crate training etc.