Where to get your dog is a very important choice whether you've decided to get a purebred or a mix, a puppy or an adult.

Mixed breeds (now often called random-bred) are available from private parties, shelters, and rescue organizations. Some pet shops also carry them. We do not recommend buying any puppy from a pet shop. The only exception to this rule is when the puppies are brought to the pet shop by shelter employees or rescuers as part of an adopt-a-thon. In these cases, the only connection to the pet shop is that it has kindly provided space and often publicity for the shelters and rescue organizations.

Purebreds are also available from private parties, shelters and rescue organizations, or you can go to a breeder. Never buy a puppy from a pet shop.

Next