Finding A Reputable Dog Breeder

Anyone can put two dogs together and let them breed, and in turn call themselves a "breeder." However being called a "reputable" breeder encompasses far more than that. You wont find a reputable breeder trying to sell their dogs to local pet stores, or advertising in the classified section. A good breeder does not need these "gimmicks." Instead, they rely on the quality of their dogs. Breeding is a practice that should be done with a sense of pride, and a feeling of fulfillment.

So once you have decided that a pure bred dog is right for you, how do you go about the overwhelming task of choosing the perfect breeder? Well ideally there are several key things to look for. Below is a simple check list to follow when looking for your breeder.

- Who is the breeder? It is very important to find out who the breeder is. One way to find out, is checking references. If the breeder is unable to provide written references, you should move on. Snoop around a bit. Talk to other breeders, rescue groups, veterinarians, anyone who can give you some information.

- Does the breeder require a Spay/neuter contract and limited registration? This means that you are legally obligated to promise that you will NOT attempt to breed your new dog. This helps stop poor quality breeding, and insure high standards of the breed.

- A reputable breeder should provide you with a "health check" which tests the lineage for known and testable genetic disorders. The breeder should be familiar with the health line of several generations. As a result, he/she should provide you with a health guarantee for a certain time period.

- A reputable breeder should encourage you to select a puppy with the temperament and personality that is compatible with you and your family. Do not let the breeder convince you that "this" one is for you. A good breeder will only produce litters AFTER they have buyers.

- The breeder should be honest about the dogs' characteristics. They should tell you both the good points and the bad points concerning a breed. Different breeds of dogs have unique characteristics that are traditional in their breed. So it is important you educate yourself.

- Check out the facilities. Make sure the breeder is keeping the dogs in a clean healthy environment. Ask to see where the dogs are kept. If the breeder insists on only bringing the dogs to you, stay clear!!

- Is your breeder involved in the breed? Most often you will find that a good breeder is involved in either, showing, performance, local clubs or rescue. An active breeder is a good sign that he/she truly cares about the breed

As you can see, choosing a good breeder should involve more than finding a number in the newspaper. Be sure to educate yourself before making any decisions. Prior to meeting with a prospective breeder write down some questions, know the breed, and be patient. Choosing the right breeder and pup is not something that you should rush. Remember being a responsible dog owner starts from the beginning.

For more great articles and tons of other great info visit our Dog forum, visit Ron's blog or visit our Pet blog

____________________

Advertisement: SitStayFetch Dog Training - Click Here!

---

Pet Tracking Devices

It was the Saturday morning of August 20, 2004 and my two kids saying that they couldn't find our cat Nala anywhere waked me up. I didn't... Read More

Identifying and Treating Health Problems in Your Dog

An essential to your dog's health is his/her regular annual checkup with the vet. The vaccinations* which are given to your dog each year ensure your dog's... Read More

My Fathers Daughter

My dad was an avid animal lover. We grew up with all kinds of animals but especially dogs. That is one of the main things I got... Read More

The 5 Things You Should Know Before Breeding Cats

The cat population is astronomical. Most experts agree that average cat owners should spay their cat, not breed. Still there are people who want to have a... Read More

Things To Think About Before You Buy A Pet Bird

While a bird is an easy pet to care for, they do require just as much commitment and preparation as any other type of pet. Whether you... Read More

Tank Requirements For Discus Fish

For Discus fish, there are 2 consideration in tanks - tank depth and volume. Because of their size and swimming habits, a minimum of 18" is needed... Read More

Dogs Get More Human Every Day

First pet stores began selling clothes for pets. Then kennels upgraded from a wire cage to four-star hotels for man's best friend. Now you can even buy... Read More

Choose an Acrylic Bird Cage

Congratulations. You've decided to buy a bird, and you even know what kind. You've gone so far as to pick out a name for your new feathered... Read More

Analysis of Cat Behavior

The most important thing to remember in analyzing the behavior of your cat is that your pet is not a human. Cats are not rational beings and... Read More

If You Want a Friend, Get a Dog!

Carl Icahn, the hostile takeover master who was THE original corporate raider, is often quoted as saying, "In this business, if you want a friend, get a... Read More

Westies Puppies - How to Prepare for Your Westie Puppy

Just like when you bring home a new baby, you will need to prepare before you bring home your westie puppy. The needs of westies puppies are... Read More

The Noble Skye Terrier

With ancestors who were a breed of tenacious terriers, most often used for ratting (hunting vermin), the Skye Terrier has become less a working dog and more... Read More

Keeping Your Cat Healthy

Cats need only be provided with decent shelter, food and water and they will be quite healthy most of the time. Like any other living thing, however,... Read More

Is Pet Insurance Right For Your Pet?

Trying to decide if you should get insurance on your pet? There are of course pro's and con's to it. Years ago I decided to try it... Read More

Choosing Between Dog Training Schools and Animal Behavior Specialists

If you are having behavioral issues with your dog that you cannot seem to resolve on your own, getting professional help is an excellent idea. However, there... Read More

Protecting Your Child from a Dog Bite

Dogs make great loyal pets and are always pleased to see their owner; they are loving and have their own distinct personalities. However, every animal has the... Read More

Chances Of A Lost Pet Being Recovered Increase

Every day we are looking for ways to make our life better, this includes protecting our families, and also included is the family pet. This once wild... Read More

How to Raise a Healthy Kitten

Selecting a Kitten It is best to choose your kitten from the whole litter, choose the frisky playful, friendly kitten that is confident and happy to... Read More

Your First Cichlid Aquarium

So you're thinking about trying cichlids. A good choice. In this article I shall try to give a few examples of good cichlid aquariums that are suitable... Read More

Westie Rescue Centres

The aim of a Westie rescue centre such as the one at: http://www.westierescuescheme.org.uk/ is for rescuing and re-housing unwanted westie dogs.There are many other westie rescue sites... Read More

How Do Your Customer View Your Pet Business?

There are thousands of local and online Pet Stores but most people only know about Petco and PetsMart. The reason these businesses have succeed is because of... Read More

Herbs for Pets

Let me begin by saying that I am not an herbalist. I do not recommend using herbs as internal medication for your pets unless you have consulted... Read More

Chinchillas As Pets

You may wish to consider a chinchilla as a possible pet. They are of the rodent family, (but it doesn't seem that way).Also known as "chins" they... Read More

Animal Deathing

What happens when we die? In our society, death is often hidden away. Rarely are we present for the passing of a loved one, a major exception... Read More

Need a Low-Maintenance Pet? Try a Tarantula!

If you're like me, then you don't really have the luxury of keeping a high-maintenance pet such as a dog. Even a less demanding pet such as... Read More

What You Should Know About Your Dogs Sleeping Habits

It's important to understand your dog's sleeping habits and how they influence its behavior, particularly when your dog gets disturbed.You see, Dogs will usually sleep for around... Read More