New puppy checklist: ID, paperwork and the law (UK)

In England, puppies under six months old can only be sold by the breeder who bred them, or rehomed by a rescue centre. Pet shops and other third-party sellers can't sell them. Ask to see the puppy with its mother where it was born, and walk away if the seller makes excuses.

• By law, puppies must be microchipped and registered by the time they're 8 weeks old, so the breeder should have done it before you collect your puppy.
• Ask for the microchip number and which database it's on.
• Transfer the record into your name straight away. Our guide to updating microchip details explains how.

Once your puppy goes out in public, the law says they must wear a collar with your name and address on it, or on a tag attached to it.

Puppies grow fast, so check the collar every week or two: you should be able to slide two fingers underneath. A QR tag lets anyone who finds your puppy reach you, and you can update the profile as they grow.

• The purchase or adoption paperwork
• The microchip number and database
• The vaccination record
• Your vet's details, and your insurance documents if you have insurance
• A few clear, recent photos, updated as your puppy grows

Register with a vet and book a check-up soon after your puppy comes home. Your vet will set the vaccination schedule, tell you when it's safe for your puppy to walk in public places, and advise on flea and worming treatment.

• Check the garden for gaps in fences and gates.
• Don't leave your puppy alone in the garden.
• Start recall training early, with lots of rewards.
• Keep the front door closed while your puppy is loose in the house.