Finding A good Breeder

Finding a Reputable Breeder

Your first consideration in buying a purebred dog should be the knowledge that for the next ten to 15 years that dog will be a part of your household. Unlike your automobile, he will not be traded in for a newer model. As a companion to your whole family, he will reflect the love and affection you show him. He will represent an emotional investment as much as a financial investment. Therefore, choose him carefully. Know as much as possible about his breed and his breeder before you buy, and deal only with a reputable breeder!

Reputable Breeders are those who:

study genetics, nutrition, structure and movement because they are primarily concerned with producing dogs which measure up against the breed's standard of perfection.


see that all their animals receive the proper inoculations at the appointed intervals in consultation with their veterinarian.


give evidence of their concern with the humane treatment of dogs by shipping only to individual parties, by shipping puppies in safe, comfortable enclosures with adequate ventilation, and by never shipping puppies under eight weeks of age.


Give individual attention in raising and socialising each puppy in clean and healthy surroundings where it can learn to live happily with people and with other dogs.


Are happy to assist you with directions for the feeding, training, and grooming of your puppy.


Sometimes have young adults as well as puppies available, and will help you select a quality animal at a price comparable with, and ultimately better, than that offered by a commercial pet store.


Will openly discuss pricing and any financial arrangements with you and will provide appropriate papers on a timely basis.


NEVER mass-produce puppies to be sold as a commodity.


NEVER deal in gimmicks or unreasonable guarantees.


NEVER use high-pressure sales practices to sell you on a breed or a particular puppy. Rather, they will encourage you to study, visit other breeders, and attend an all-breed dog show before you decide.


Visiting the Kennel when you visit a kennel there are certain things you have a right to know about the breeder. You may want to ask some of these questions:

1. Why did you breed this litter?

2. How many litters do you breed a year?

3. Do you show your own puppies and dogs and with what success?

4. Do you belong to a local or national breed club?

5. Has your veterinarian checked these puppies?

6. If a hereditary defect appears in the puppy, will there be a refund or a replacement?


Decide BEFORE you buy whether you want a pet quality puppy or a show potential puppy.

A PET QUALITY puppy is a healthy example of the breed which falls just a little short of the standard of perfection in some way.

A SHOW POTENTIAL puppy is one which measures up strongly against the standard and has no disqualifying faults.