Finding an Ethical Breeder
You will learn a lot in your search for the right breeder. Take your time, and visit more than one. It is vital for you to deal with a breeder who you can trust, and that kind of relationship takes time to develop.
Your first contact with a breeder may be over the phone, followed up by a visit to their home or kennel. You should first get to see the pup's dam and sometimes its sire (mom and dad) without the irresistible distraction of their puppies. Meeting the parents first will not only keep you from falling in love at first sight with their adorable offspring but also give you a chance to observe their temperament. If they seem overly aggressive or fearfully shy, that's a huge red flag.
You should also ask to see the parents' pedigrees. Puppies coming from generations of titled champions will usually grow up to be good examples of the breed. Check out the breeder's prize ribbons and trophies. These are the A's on a breeder's report card and no doubt they will be prominently displayed for all the world to see.
When you find the right breeder, you will become part of an extended family. In most cases, it will become a lifelong relationship. Reputable breeders will be there for you when questions arise and when health issues come up during all stages of your dog's life. Their joy in their dogs is infectious, making dog ownership more pleasurable for you, too.
A good breeder raises pups in a home environment with lots of love and attention, helping to socialize their canine youngsters in the process.
When you visit a breeder, you will get a feel for their operation and for the kind of care they provide. Look beyond the puppies. Are the premises clean and safe? Does the breeder and his or her family exhibit affection for their dogs? Are the pups clean, lively, and happy? Pups should look well nourished and show no signs of illness. Runny noses, teary eyes, sparse coats, skin conditions, fleas, or loose stools are indications that these babies are not healthy or well cared for.
First and foremost, a reputable breeder does not breed dogs primarily to make money. The preservation and betterment of their chosen breed is uppermost. They usually offer one or two breeds, producing a few litters a year. They screen the dogs they breed and the pups that are produced, and they offer health guarantees against genetic diseases common to that breed, including replacing that pup if such a disease should occur. If a pup does not work out in its new home for any reason, they will take it back.
Reputable breeders evaluate their puppies to see which ones are show quality and which are pet quality (usually costing less than show prospects). Pet-quality pups are by no means inferior or undesirable. Usually for cosmetic reasons like coloring, size, or conformation faults, the breeder has determined that they should not be bred, but as their name implies, these dogs make fine pets. Reputable breeders are interested in improving their breed. They will answer all of your questions and willingly provide references from other owners of their dogs.
Finally, a reputable breeder will be just as interested in checking out your suitability as an owner. Sometimes this can rub a prospective dog owner the wrong way, but it shouldn't. Although the breeder's attitude may seem somewhat picky and overprotective, keep in mind that any concerns spring from finding the best situation for the dogs.
Reputable breeders often sell pet-quality puppies with a spay/neuter contract. This means that in the interest of breed betterment and preventing pet overpopulation, they will not sell you that puppy unless you sign a paper agreeing not to breed it.
