by Vicky Goodwin

Created on: July 02, 2009

Reputable dog breeders only breeds one or two different dog breeds, in which they are extremely knowledgeable of. They are usually involved in dog shows or dog events (agility, obedience, herding, hunting trials, tracking, etc). Expect to pay more for a quality puppy, rather than at an irresponsible breeder or puppy mill who mass produce puppies to sell and make money.

Finding a reputable dog breeder

Once you know what breed you want, go to www.akc.org to find the American Kennel Club (AKC) parent club of that breed. The parent club is a great source to find breeders dedicated to the breed and also smaller more local breed clubs. You may also want to go to a few dog shows in your area to talk to some breeders and handlers there. Go to www.infodog.com for a list of dog shows in your area.

The papers

Just because the breeder has AKC registration papers doesn't mean he/she is a responsible breeder. It just means the dog is purebred and is eligible to compete in AKC events. Do your research!

Most breeders with have a contract with each puppy buyer. Ask what the contract entails. Some will have a spay/neuter contract requiring the puppy to be spayed within a certain time. Others may have a required breeding with the breeder having first choice of puppies.

Reputable breeders will usually have a heath guarantee of one or two years. Ask what kind of guarantee is given and what happens if the puppy does get sick.

Health Tests

All dogs have potential health problems. Ask the breeder if he/she has tested both parents for health problems. He/she should explain the breed standard and common genetic illnesses of that particular breed, and should provide you with documentation that both parents are free of health defects. You may go to www.caninehealthinfo.org to find out what specific tests are recommended for each breed.

Living conditions

Ask to see the where the puppies were raised. No breeder should refuse to do so, unless he/she has something to hide. In most cases, they should be inside as part of the family.

The parents

Ask to see the parents. In some cases, the father may not be on premise because he was a stud. The parents are a sure way to find out what the puppy's temperament may be. They should appear happy and healthy.

Your interview

The breeder should want to interview and meet all potential puppy buyers to insure they are a good match for the puppy. If he/she do not, RUN!

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