The Importance of Choosing a Responsible Dog Breeder

A responsible dog breeder is one that understands proper breeding protocol. Great breeders also take great care of their dogs, and do not over breed. So, how do you know if a breeder is a good one to purchase a puppy from? To find a responsible dog breeder, you should research your options before you buy.

If you already have a veterinarian, they may be able to point you in the direction of a great breeder when you notify them of the breed that you prefer. If you do not have a vet, or if you have already found a breeder and want to know if they are a viable option, ask to see a veterinary reference. If they cannot provide one, move on, they are not a responsible animal owner.

Another great venue for finding a good breeder is your pet owner friends. If you have a friend who has a breed of dog you like, ask where they purchased the dog and if they felt the breeder was responsible. Even if your friend gives a great breeder recommendation, you should still ask to have a vet verify their skills.

When you visit a breeder ask to see their breeding license. All business breeders are required to have a license in order to breed their dogs. Hobby breeders do not have to have a license; however, you should avoid getting a dog from a hobbyist, as they may not be as knowledgeable of proper breeding practices.

When you are searching for a good breed, avoid puppy mills and puppy farms. These are unlicensed breeders who pump out larger amounts of puppies in short time periods. The conditions on these farms are frequently unsanitary and the dogs are often inbred. There are a great number of health conditions associated with inbreeding.

You should also avoid buying a breed from a pet store, flea market or any other venue that is not directly from the breeder. A good breeder prefers to find responsible pet parents rather than making the quick dollar from selling their puppies cheap at a pet store. Dogs that are less genetically feasible may be dumped in these venues if an irresponsible breeder could not find a home for them.

It may be sad to see a puppy in a pet store and not buy it, but if you do purchase that puppy, you may be furthering the practice of puppy mills. It may seem easy to just walk in and buy a puppy at a pet store, but the time spent researching good breeders may save you the headache of larger vet bills and other problems later.

If you find it hard to not buy an animal when you are in a pet store, avoid visiting them until you have your dog. You can also visit larger chain pet stores that do not keep dogs in the store. They may also be able to point you in the direction of a good breeder.

When you visit and interview a breeder be sure to ask about their history in the breeding world. How do they avoid genetic disorders? Do they have others they regularly work with to avoid inbreeding? You should also find out the temperament of the mother and father of any puppy you are considering. Ask to meet both parents if at all possible. This will allow you to get an idea of what your puppy’s adult temperament.

A great breeder cares about their dogs, follows the letter of the law, provides proper documentation, and will always have the needs of their animals at heart before the dollar sign. If you feel like a breeder does not meet these qualifications, walk away and find another. Finding a great breeder is the best way to find a great dog.