Ask about your real life
- Hours alone on a workday.
- Yard vs apartment, and nearby off-lead space.
- Children’s ages and whether visitors include toddlers.
- Budget for food, preventatives and a possible behaviourist.
- Who will walk the dog when it rains for a week.
Breed is a clue, not a guarantee
Working lines need a job. Flat-faced dogs struggle in Australian summers. “Good with kids” on a listing still needs a meet-and-greet. Read our breed hubs, then meet the individual.
Puppy, adult or rescue
Puppies are a full-time project. Many family homes do better with a known adult from rehome or adoption. Use first-week and cost guides before you pay a deposit.
General matching advice. Temperament tests and rescue assessments are still the gold standard for an individual dog.