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Selecting a Breeder
This is probably the
single most important thing you will do in selecting a puppy and you should
do it wisely. Don’t be offended by the breeder who asks you a million
questions. It only means that they care about where their puppy is going and
the kind of life it will lead.
A breeder should be
very knowledgeable in all facets of the breed. Find out how long the breeder
has been around. There is no substitution for longevity and experience in
the breed.
Check health
guarantees.
Question the breeder
on their goals and accomplishments. Most breeders are very proud of their
accomplishments. Will the breeder take the puppy back, regardless of age or
situation or circumstances, if the buyer is no longer able to keep the
puppy?
Finally, check out
the breeder's environment. What kind of condition is the place in and how
are the dogs kept? While every setup will vary in general appearance, the
dogs or puppies should never be kept in dirty, filthy surroundings. Some
warning signs are matted, dirty smelling coats, overgrown toenails,
inflamed, matter-filled eyes, flea and fly infestation, scars on the faces
and ears. The condition of the environment says a lot for a breeder and
there is no excuse for a dirty place, overloaded with too many dogs.
Opinions will vary on
the right and wrong way to keep dogs, but the bottom line is the dogs should
be clean and well cared for. If you have any doubts, don’t do it! Also a
reputable breeder should answer any and all questions up front and honestly.
If you think something is being hidden, go somewhere else! And most
importantly, stay away from pet shops, puppy mills and run-of-the-mill
backyard breeders. |
