What to Look for in a Breeder

What is a reputable dog breeder?

A reputable breeder feels responsibility toward the breed itself, toward the dogs he or she produces, and toward the persons who will buy them. A reputable breeder spends time and money on matters that are in the best interests of the breed.

How does a prospective buyer recognize a reputable breeder?

1. A reputable breeder never sells puppies to a pet shop or broker, but only through direct contact with the final owner, in order to properly match the dog to the owner and ensure that the owner is ready for the responsibility of dog ownership and can provide a safe and proper home.
2. A reputable breeder does not release a puppy to a new home until it is at least 8 weeks old.
3. A reputable breeder only sells puppies that are properly vaccinated and with dewclaws removed where necessary, and also advises you of any screening that should be done as the puppy grows older, such as eyes, hips, etc.
4. A reputable breeder shows you the mother and allows you to view all of the puppies and watch their interaction, rather than bringing out one puppy at a time for you to view. But keep in mind that a reputable breeder often has only one (or very few) puppies available to pick from as they usually plan to keep one and may have taken reservations on others.
5. A reputable breeder will give you the following documents when you buy a puppy:

• A health record listing date and types of vaccines and worming treatments.
• A sales contract giving the name of the sire and dam, their registration numbers, the puppy’s date of birth, and a setting a time period wherein you can return the pup if found unsatisfactory or unhealthy after a veterinary exam. In the case of a pet quality puppy, the contract will include a spay/neuter agreement under which the registration papers will not be given without proof that the puppy has been spayed or neutered.
• A copy of the puppy’s pedigree.

6. A reputable breeder participates in events sponsored by national clubs, such as the American Kennel Club or United Kennel Club. These events include conformation shows, obedience, field, hunting and herding trials, lure coursing, and tracking. This is the reason he or she breeds dogs, not to produce a cash crop.

How do you find a reputable breeder?

Go to the AKC Website for the national or local club of the breed you are looking for. These clubs can provide names of breeders in your area and nationwide. Take time to contact more than one breeder, ask lots of questions, don’t be afraid to request the breeder’s credentials and references, and carefully select the dog that’s best for you. Don’t buy a puppy on an impulse–it is a lifetime decision.

Protect Yourself & Purebred Dogs: Buy From A Reputable Breeder!