If you are currently on the search for a puppy, here are a few guidelines on what to look for in a breeder:
1) They do not sell their puppies to pets stores. A responsible breeder is committed to placing all of their puppies personally. They care where the dogs go. In fact, a large majority of pet store dogs come from PUPPY MILLS.
2) One, or both, of the parents is available for you to meet. Often times, the most ideal stud for the bitch is not in the same area, but the breeder should at least have the dam. Knowing the temperament, current health, and size of the sire and dam is a good indication of how the puppies will grow up - this is important information.
3) Both sire and dam have been health tested for BAER (hearing), auscultation and/or Doppler Echocardiogram (heart), UPC (kidney), and palpation for checking patella luxation. The results from these tests should be readily available to you.
4) Participation in dog sports (Conformation, obedience, agility, etc.) and/or breed clubs (BTCA, AKC, regional BT clubs) is a very good indication on how committed the breeder is to their dogs.
5) This is a personal preference of mine, but all of the breeders I know are involved in rescue of their breed. This shows to me that they really care about the well-being of all dogs, no matter their “worth” or if they are “pet” or “show” quality.
6) A responsible breeder will be honest about the show potential of their puppies, and will openly offer information onto any health issues they’ve had in their dogs. Research your breed, before meeting with a breeder, to find out common health problems to know what you’re looking for. Breeding is not an exact science, and while reputable breeders try very hard to remove any genetic issues, health problems still arise.
7) Contracts and health warranties! Find out what is covered before buying a puppy. Dedicated breeders will likely want to stay in touch, and offer support, to the new owners. They will also cover any spay/neuter, vet, or showing requirements. They will also be open to taking a puppy back, or refunding money should something go wrong. Do not be too worried if they want a “co-ownership” arrangement, just make sure you understand all of the details of this arrangement and what it means for you.
8) For maximum litter socialization and health, puppies should stay with their litter mates until 10 weeks of age. Puppies need to be with their mother until at least 7 weeks of age. Anything earlier of this is strongly discouraged. If a breeder is willing to give a puppy away before 8 - 10 weeks, they either do not care or are uneducated.
9) When pick up of a puppy is not possible, and the puppy must be shipped, the breeder should have someone closer to you come and do a home check before sending the puppy. Big red flag if they don’t care to do this!
10) Some amazing breeders DO have websites, however, this does not guarantee quality or commitment to their breed.
KENNEL CLUB (AKC, CKC, etc.) REGISTRATION DOES NOT GUARANTEE HEALTH, TEMPERAMENT, OR OVERALL QUALITY! This simply means that the sire and dam of the puppies are KNOWN, registered dogs.
Finally, a responsible breeder will ask you questions, also. If they do not ask you anything, this should raise a red flag - do they really care about the puppies’ welfare?
If you have any questions, or would likely to be directed to someone who can give you a good breeder referral, please, send me a message! I will be more than happy to talk about this.
