How to Find a Reputable Dog Breeder

If you're looking for a purebred dog, you must follow the steps below. The reason? There are hundreds of dishonest breeders across the U.S. producing puppies that are too inbred, ill-tempered and with a host of health problems. Fortunately, there are many good breeders out there with integrity to hold up breed standards for their choice dogs. It's imperative that you find a reputable breeder when purchasing a purebred dog. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Begin your search by asking your vet, friends and local breeding clubs for recommendations. Also, search on the American Kennel Club's website, which lists reputable breeders for each breed.
2. Call recommended breeders to find out when litters are available. Ask if you can visit the puppies once born, as well as meet the mother and father, if he's in the area. If their answer is no, try another breeder. A reputable breeder should encourage, even require, potential owners to visit more than once.
3. Ask a potential breeder how long he's bred and how many types of breeds he's involved with. A good breeder should have years of experience and breed only one or two breeds. Make sure he's knowledgeable about breed standards in areas such as temperament, health, size and coat.
4. Find out if the breeder screens for health problems associated with the breed. A reputable breeder provides records and certificates showing that her dogs don't suffer from such health problems. Make sure the puppies have seen a vet at least once or twice before being purchased.
5. Visit the puppies. Note where they live--good breeders keep puppies in their homes, in a clean, safe environment. Spend time with the puppies and notice if they seem happy, friendly and healthy.
6. Have the breeder give you references from people who've bought her puppies. If she says no, walk away. References are essential.
7. Make sure the breeder provides you a written contract when you've found a puppy. A contract should include a health guarantee. It also should stipulate that you agree to spay or neuter your puppy if keeping him as a pet and that you contact the breeder first before giving the dog away.

Tips & Warnings

• A good breeder explains how to care for and train your new puppy. He also should offer help once you take your puppy home.
• Ask if the breeder is active with local, state or national breed clubs and how she stays educated about her breed. A lot of reputable breeders compete their dogs in obedience, conformation and agility trials.
• If anything about the breeder, his adult dogs or puppies appears questionable, you should move on to a different breeder. By purchasing a purebred puppy, you're making a sizable investment in your family pet for the next 10 to 15 years. You must be confident in your decision.