Learn what to look for in a puppy breeder
Though it is sad to think about, not all breeders have a dog’s best interests at heart. It is important to purchase a puppy from an honorable, reputable breeder to decrease the risk of health or behavior problems in your new puppy. An easy way to find potential breeders is through your veterinarian’s office. Often times, he or she can put you in touch with a familiar and local breeder that you can visit before purchasing a puppy.
When you are in contact with the potential breeders, be sure to ask them questions about dogs in general as well as the puppies. Find out why they are selling puppies to see if they are interested in bettering the breed. Ask to see health records of both the puppies as well as the parents. It is important to know your puppy’s parent’s health history to know what disorders may be running in your puppy’s genes. If possible, find a puppy who has very healthy parents.
Find out if your puppy has received any of his vaccinations. Also ask if they have begun any training or socialization. While it is often not necessary for the breeder to train puppies before selling them, it is still helpful for the new pet owner to know. It is important to find out the puppy’s current diet and routine. If you are planning on making any dietary or routine changes, do so gradually to ensure a smooth transition.
If you are interested in purebred puppies, be sure to see the parents’ official registration papers for proof of your puppy’s purebred status. Find out if your puppy has been registered yet and if you will have to transfer ownership on the registration.
Finally, see if the breeder has references. Talk to his past customers to see if they are satisfied with their experiences with the breeder. Find out if the breeder is honest and if their dogs are healthy.
Remember that a puppy is a big decision. Be careful when choosing a breeder to find the best puppy for your situation.
