How to find a Good Breeder

• Responsible breeders will ask you questions, so don't get offended. They are just making sure that both you and the puppy are a good match.
• A good breeder will have health testing done on both the parents and the pups.
• All dogs should be registered with the AKC, and the breeder should be registered with their National Dog Association - In my case it is the DPCA
• A good breeder will be responsible for their puppies for their whole life. They will move heaven and hell to make sure one of their litter is always homed with a loving family.
• Most breeders will grade their puppys, and will generally sell their non show quality pups at a lower price. This does not mean that the puppy is a lower quality, but just not going to be great in the show ring.
• To get an idea of what sort of questions you may be asked, please go to the Puppy Enquiry page.
• The breeder will want to see you, unless logistics make it impossible, and may want to meet your family as well.
• A good breeder generally will make NO money off a litter. Please remember that the price that you are paying is always put back into that puppy.
  

• Kennel Clubs are great such as the DPCA.
• The AKC.
• Other Breeders
• Your Vet

• You should have a phone interview first. This way your judgement is not clouded by having heaps of adorable puppies running around your feet.
• Ask to see the sire and dam. Sometimes this is not possible, as the two dogs are not often together, but a good breeder will hopefully find a way.
• Ask about genetic diseases that affect the breed, and what health testing has been done.
• Ask about a contract, guarantee, and referrals. Ask about titles of the parents, not just in show, but obedience, therapy, assistance, agility or schutzhund.
• Ask to see the pedigrees and health testing.

List of questions:

1. Will you help us pick the right puppy for our needs?
2. Are your breeding animals health tested
3. What are their AKC registration numbers
4. Do you guarantee your puppy
5. Can we visit the parents
6. Will you give us the names of other puppy buyers
7. Do you require pups to be spayed / neutered
8. Will the puppy have their first shots
9. At what age do you place puppys.

1. Have you ever had a dog before, if so - what type
2. Do you have children? How many? What ages?
3. Do you live in a house or apartment. Are you renting or do you own
4. Do you have any other pets
5. Do you have a fenced yard
6. What do you do for exercise
7. Do you know the dog laws in your community
8. Do you plan to train your puppy
9. Are you aware of the costs involved in vet care, spaying, good quality dog food, and boarding, etc
10. What would you do if you have to rehome a dog.