How should you choose a breeder?
The breeder of your puppy/dog should be someone that you are comfortable working with for 12-15 years. The breeder is there to be a support system to you & your new family member and assist you with training concerns, potential health & wellness questions and for basic follow up.
We want to know how our puppies are doing. We do not want to invade your privacy, but we want to continue to improve our breeding program, therefore; we will want updates with photos.
There are many "types" of breeders out there.
Signs of a bad breeder:
1. They have no purpose for breeding (hunting, sledding, conformation, dog sports that they compete in), but they have several litters per year.
2. They claim champion bloodlines with only 1 or 2 champions in the pedigree or they claim to be a champion. You can check this on the AKC website! Please e-mail me and I will send you directions. I have seen dogs advertised as AKC/UKC/OFA/ champion. This does not mean they are champions! Check with the AKC!
3. The dogs living quarters are dirty, the breeder doesn't allow you to see the puppies parents, the breeder doesn't show you the Champion certificates, etc.
4. Health certifications are not obtained before breeding, and/or they breed the dogs before they are mature. ASK to see the health certificates!
5. A breeder trys to sell you a "Show Quality Puppy" but does not show the parents and does not have a dog with a Champion certificate.
A good breeder is ethical and has the interest of the dogs at heart. The breeder should be breeding to better the blood line, not line their pockets!
1. The breeder should be able to show you either both parents, or if an outside stud dog was used, at least a picture and the contract from the stud dog owner
2. The breeder should be able to show you AKC registration, don't be fooled by the imposters such as: CKC (Canine Kennel Club, or Continental Kennel Club), PRA or Pet Registry of America. The Canadian Kennel Club is legitimate as well as the UKC or United Kennel Club. There are several bogus registration clubs and groups. DON'T BE FOOLED!
3. The breeder should be able to show you all health certifications and vaccination records for example, worming dates and medications. The breeder should also be able to show you the Eye exam clearances & Hip certifications. You can find out more at www.offa.org.
4. The breeder should provide you with a contract that spells the specifications of you becoming a new pet owner. For example, if you are purchasing a puppy for a pet, they should require you to have them spayed or neutered. This is usually done prior to you getting the papers for your pup, and you have to provide proof.
5. The breeder should provide you with instructions on how to proceed should you be unable to fulfill your obligations as a pet owner. For example, if you cannot keep the dog any more, it must be returned to the breeder and cannot be sold or given away.
6. The breeder should provide an unconditional health guarantee. Most give a health guarantee of up to 3 years. Hip X-rays for hip dysplasia are often not completed until the dog is 2 years of age.
These are just a few of the suggestions to find a good breeder! Keep checking back for more tips!
