Breed Menu Index Of Dog Breeds About Breed Groups Choosing A Dog Choosing A Breeder

Choosing a Breeder That's Reputable

Once you have completely researched the dog you are interested in, and have decided that this is the dog for you, it’s time to look for a reputable breeder. You can find ideal breeders through the following methods:

• Asking other dog owners of the breed where they purchased their dog
• Asking a local vet for a recommendation
• Visiting the website of the kennel club of your nation
• Visiting the website of the specific breed club of your nation
• Conducting an online search using your city, the dog breed and the word “breeder” as the keyword.

You should never purchase a dog from a pet store, as these dogs have come from puppy mills, which means they have not been well taken care of, have not been bred responsibly, and will often have health problems.

What are the characteristics of a reputable breeder?

Once you find a breeder, the following is how you can determine whether or not they are reputable. A reputable breeder -

• Is an expert on the dog they breed, and should have at least five years of experience. They should be able to answer all of your questions regarding the breed, and will openly discuss all aspects about the breed including their good and bad qualities.
  
  
• Will breed no more that two different dog breeds, but usually specializes in one specific breed.
  
  
• Doesn’t breed a female who is less than 2 years old, and only breeds one litter per year from a single female. In addition, a breeder should only breed a total of 2-3 litters per year, as raising puppies requires plenty of care and attention.
  
  
• Will ask you questions. They will want to know about your dog experience and your lifestyle. They will want to know why you are interested in the breed.
  
  
  
• Will provide a clean, comfortable living space for their dogs and puppies.
  
  
• Will properly socialize the puppies.
  
  
• Will ensure the puppies have received their first vaccinations and have been for all the necessary vet checkups. They should come with a health certificate.
  
  
• Will provide a guarantee on their pups (IE. take them back, or provide a refund if a puppy becomes sick within a year).
  
  
• Should breed champion dogs, and will care about the quality of the litters produced. They won’t just breed any two dogs together.
  
  
• Will allow you to meet the sire and/or dam if they are present.
  
  
• Registers the litter with the kennel club of their nation and provides you with a certificate of authenticity.

As you can see, a reputable breeder takes dog breeding seriously. They love dogs, and are devoted to carrying on and improving the health and quality of the breed. You should never settle for anything less from a breeder.