Amy Hatcher from Doodley Dogs answers some of our reader’s queries about their pets.

I have been asking my partner for ages for a puppy. I am hoping he will buy me one for Christmas. Is there anything I can do to prepare?

Buying a puppy as a present is not a good idea. Breeders that are prepared to sell to someone who clearly wants the puppy to be a surprise for someone are usually just after money and don't breed for quality. It should take months of planning and ringing breeders before making a decision on which puppy. A good breeder will want to meet everybody who will be living with the puppy to assess the suitability of ownership.

My dog always helps me decorate the Christmas Tree, he is an important part of the family. However, last year he tried to get the chocolate decorations off the tree... much to my 7 year old daughters disgust! Is chocolate OK for dogs? I have heard it isn’t?

Chocolate contains an additive called Theobromine and this is poisonous to dogs as they are unable to digest it. Very weak chocolates such as low quality milk chocolate is tolerable by most dogs but it is not a good idea at all to allow your dog to consume any form of human chocolate. It certainly won’t do them any good. Avoid having low hanging edible decorations on your tree or keep the door closed so your dog can’t scoff anything!

I am really looking forward to New Years Eve- I have a trip to London planned. I have no idea what I should do with my dog- is it OK to leave him all night?

It is not a good idea to leave your dog alone for any length of time during the festive period. This is mostly because of the loud fireworks, party goers walking past and general change in routine. Here at Doodley Dogs we have a special night time opening for New Years Eve. You can leave your dog with us the day before and we will look after him over night. We will be staying with the dogs and there will be no kennels or cages,  just lots of fun and interaction with other dogs.

If you have a question for Amy please send it to: info@doodleydogs.co.uk

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