What To Look For In A Breeder


 Finding a good dog breeder can be one of the most rewarding things in your search for a top breed dog. There is a history with a top breed that is important to check out, as well as obtaining records you will need in this process. Whether you’re interested in a puppy to have as companion or to breed it, the most important step is finding a reputable breeder. This requires a little homework in advance, before you shop. It can be an exciting process. It will be so easy not to remember the important questions to ask a breeder, as well as remembering to see papers that will come with your full breed. So we want to break this down to make it easier for you to search and find a good breeder you can stay in contact with for the life of your top breed. There are some important things to look for from the start.

 Here are 3 important things to look for in a good breeder. 1. A good breeder knows a lot about the specific breed they breed. They will be able to tell the buyer about any genetic problems they have. (Breeders should not breed more than 4 different breeds). 2. A good breeder will have phone numbers and addresses posted on their site and will make themselves available after the sale also. 3.They will provide current health papers, shot and vaccination records along with AKC registration papers. 
 There will also be questions asked of you by the breeder, as good breeders do not sell to just anyone interested in buying. A good breeder will ask you for information about yourself as well. They will want to know that you will be a responsible owner. You’re looking at many years with the purchase of a good breed. You must provide them with information about your responsibility, such as where the dog will be cared for, both at home and veterinary care. Open questions can and should be asked by both the breeder and the buyer. Explain to the breeder why you want the dog. Tell the breeder who will be responsible for the pup’s daily care and training classes. Explain where the dog will be spending most of its time. Sign a contract with the breeder that you will spay or neuter the dog unless you will be actively involved in showing him or her. (This applies to show-quality dogs only). Sign a contract with the breeder stating you will return the dog to the breeder should you be unable to keep the dog at any point in its life.

 Here are some red lights to look for during your search for a good dog breeder. You will want to avoid them.
* Breeders who sell to just anyone walking in the door with their checkbook out. These breeders do not really care about the future of their pups. If the breeder does not care where the puppies go, then what kind of care have they taken of the litter? And what kind of care will they give should your pup have any problems?
* A breeder who refuses to supply you with references, their veterinary care and previous buyers. If they do not supply you with this information, then how will you be able to determine or have record of the pup’s health history and genetics?
* While questioning the breeder’s background and why they bred their dogs, you get vague or self interest answers. These can be "we wanted one of her pups" or "to get our money back out of her". Then you know that you are dealing with unqualified breeders with little planning, preparation or forethought. This lack of proper planning can mean your potential pup purchase would be a gamble regarding it's own past care and future health.
Here are some green lights to look for in a good, reputable dog breeder. These help you make a quality purchase.
* Look for dogs that appear happy, healthy, excited to meet new people and don't shy away from visitors.
* When you find a breeder that encourages you to spend time with the puppy's parent, at least with the pup's mother, then it is a good green light sign. One of the other things to look for is that the breeder will insist that the puppies for sale will be at least seven weeks old before being placed. Puppies for sale that have been introduced to children and other animals as part of their socialization is another good sign of a quality breeder. A good breeder’s primary concern is finding a good home for the puppy rather than getting paid. Communication with a breeder is most essential in finding a well-bred dog. Don't be afraid to ask a lot of questions such as "why do you breed your dogs?”, "what is your motivation, your philosophy as a breeder?" This and more will give you an opportunity to get to know the breeder. Be prepared to answer many questions from the breeder yourself. This is a two way street, where the dog has come from and where the dog will be going. In this way you are looking out for your dog's present, past and future. That is the sign of a responsible dog owner. Once you have determined you have found the breeder and puppy you want, ensure you have a clearly defined contract prior to the purchase of the dog.
 Email may be the initial form of contact with a good breeder but be sure to follow up with a phone call. If they do not provide this information, do not go through with the sale. When they do give this information, follow through in the steps above and enjoy your new relationships built with both breeder and your new pup!