MYTH: you should never give someone a puppy for a Christmas present

REALITY: We’ve all heard the saying ‘a puppy is for life, not just for Christmas’ and we’re inclined to think that getting a pet at Christmas is reckless. Yes it can be, if done on impulse without thinking about the lifelong commitment of pet ownership. But if you have thought it through, planned carefully and are ready, then why not at Christmas? You have time off work, the new pet can bond with children who will be at home, and you can ease in gently without having to navigate the school run with a new pup. If you do decide to do it at Christmas, plan a low-key holiday at home, without lots of friends and family, and dedicate the time to calmly settling in your new pet.