Dog-lovers looking for their ideal match took part in a ‘speed mating’ evening to find their perfect pet.
They gathered at the Kennel Club HQ, in Piccadilly, on Friday (September 25) for the event, which was organised after research revealed too many people are buying dogs without giving it serious consideration.
It aimed to showcase the variety of pedigree dog breeds available and highlight the importance of finding a suitable canine companion.
Among the dogs present with their breeders were cocker spaniels, smooth coated Chihuahuas and golden retrievers, with each date lasting three minutes.
Kennel Club research showed one in 10 people get a dog as a spur of the moment decision, with 1% buying a puppy because it is fashionable.
Nearly a quarter of pet owners based their decision on how the dog looked, and some even admitted they chose their pup based on their favourite celebrity’s dog.
Discover Dogs hosted the speed dating pop-up to give people the chance to find their perfect pooch. It allowed potential dog owners the opportunity to learn first-hand from breeders the pros and cons of taking on a dog.
Caroline Kisko, from the Kennel Club, said: “It is so important we educate people about the importance of choosing the right breed of dog, and ensure people are getting dogs for the right reasons.
“A good breeder will help you understand the breed and assess your suitability as a potential owner before selling their pups.
“The Kennel Club always recommends going to a Kennel Club Assured Breeder who have to follow strict scheme rules that protect their pup’s health and welfare.
“It is essential when taking on a puppy, you learn the likely characteristics of your chosen breed. With pedigree dogs you can predict how big your dog will grow, its exercise and grooming needs, as well as important tests your breeder should have carried out for its health.”
For more information, go to www.thekennelclub.org.uk/findadogbreed or www.discoverdogs.org.uk.
