| Getting a dog is a long term commitment (or should | | | | also provide references from others who have |
| be) and therefore, requires a thoughtful approach. | | | | purchased puppies from them. They encourage |
| Since a dog will be a part of your family for the next | | | | multiple visits and want your entire family to meet the |
| decade or two it's a good idea to make sure you are | | | | puppy. You are also encouraged to spend some time |
| getting a healthy dog that has been bred responsibly | | | | with the puppy's mother and, if possible, the father too. |
| so you don't end up with one that has poor health or a | | | | They also offer guidance about training and caring for |
| bad temperament years later. You want to avoid the | | | | the puppy and will be available for questions later. |
| puppy mills and backyard breeders and find a qualified | | | | The breeder only breeds one or two different breeds |
| breeder that is responsible and knowledgeable. The | | | | of dogs and is familiar with the standards for those |
| following are signs of a good breeder. | | | | particular breeds (such as desired size, color, coat, |
| The breeder shows you where the dogs spend their | | | | proportion and temperament) as well as potential |
| time and it is well-maintained and clean. The dogs are | | | | genetic defects that are common for the breed. The |
| kept in the home as part of the family rather than | | | | breeder should have documentation that the puppy's |
| being locked outside in kennel runs and are fed high | | | | parents and grandparents have been tested and are |
| quality pet food. They never sell dogs through a pet | | | | free from such defects. They also may be involved |
| store or in any other way that doesn't allow interaction | | | | with dog clubs that specialize in the specific breed. |
| between the buyer and the puppy to make sure they | | | | A good breeder will require that you explain why you |
| are a good match and will provide a good life long | | | | want to own a dog, who will be responsible for the |
| home for the dog. | | | | puppy's daily care, where she will be kept, how training |
| The dogs appear to be happy, healthy and inquisitive. | | | | will be provided. They may also require a veterinary |
| They are excited to see new people and don't shy | | | | reference and proof from a landlord or condo board |
| away from visitors. The breeder has a good | | | | that you are allowed a dog. You may be required to |
| relationship with a veterinarian and has records of | | | | sign an agreement to spay or neuter the dog (unless it |
| veterinary visits and vaccinations for the puppies. They | | | | is a show dog) and to return the dog if you become |
| also provide you with a written contract and guarantee | | | | unable to keep the dog. |
| of health that does not require you use a specific | | | | Since you will probably live with your dog for the next |
| veterinarian. | | | | 10-20 years it is a good investment of time to make |
| The breeder doesn't always have puppies available | | | | sure that you are working with a reputable breeder |
| and keeps a waiting list for interested people. They | | | | that breeds happy and healthy dogs. |