Breeders

If you've made the decision to bring a pet into your life you might be considering buying it from a breeder. Many animal organizations, including the ASPCA and the Humane Society, advocate adopting pets from rescue shelters due to the vast number of loving animals that need homes. But if you ultimately decide that purchasing an animal from a breeder is the best decision for you, make sure you contact someone who is reputable. The last thing you want is to purchase a dog from a puppy mill.

The Human Society of the United States offers several tips for choosing a good breeder:

  • Look for someone who keeps the dogs in their home, not outside locked up in kennel runs.
  • Someone who only breeds a select few breeds, and is knowledgeable about "breed standards" (i.e. - the breed's size, proportions, temperament, coat, coloring, etc.)
  • Someone who doesn't have puppies available for purchase, but rather lets people know when a litter will be available.
  • The dogs appear happy and healthy. They don't tend to shy away from visitors.
  • Someone who doesn't sell the dogs over the Internet or through a pet store.
  • Is willing to show you where the dogs are kept. That area should be clean and well-maintained.
  • Allows you to spend time with the puppy's parents, especially the puppy's mother, when you come to visit.
  • Has a good relationship with local veterinarians, and can provide you with veterinary records for both the puppy you are interested in and its mother.
  • Someone who can provide you with details regarding potential genetic problems inherent with the breed. A good breeder should also be able to provide documentation that the puppy's parents and grandparents were tested to ensure they are free of genetic problems.
  • Someone who feeds their dogs quality pet food.
  • Someone who encourages you to come back for multiple visits and wants your entire family to meet the new puppy.
  • Someone who will provide you with a written contract and health guarantee, and gives you plenty of time to read it thoroughly.

A good breeder should also require some things from you, such as:

  • An explanation as to why you want a dog.
  • An explanation as to who in your family will take care of the puppy and make sure its daily needs are met.
  • Proof from your landlord or HOA that you're allowed to have a dog.
  • Character references.
  • A signed contract that you'll agree to get the puppy spayed or neutered, unless you plan to show the dog at competitions.
  • A signed contract that you'll bring the dog back to the breeder if you decide you no longer can take care of it-at any point in the dog's life.

If you have any additional questions about finding a breeder, a veterinarian may be able to help. Find a veterinarian near you!