Dog Breeders - How to Choose the Right One | Dogs

By: Matthew Hick

Selecting your new pet dog can be quite a task, especially since there are so many types to choose from.

Some people want a dog with a disposition that will be a perfect fit for them, their family and their lifestyles. When looking for a dog, the humane society is filled with many possible choices that will yield an ideal companion. But, if you want a more reliable indicator of temperament, health and other factors, then a dog breeder can usually fulfill your needs. Perhaps the most important thing to keep in mind when choosing a dog breeder is to take your time. It shouldn’t be a rushed decision, and you should make sure you are dealing with a reputable and established professional.

In your search for a dog breeder, you can seek the guidance of veterinarians, other pet owners, local kennel clubs and boarding kennels. They know many breeders and can help refer you to some of the better ones. Once you have established a list of possible choices, the interview process can start. It is a good idea to contact and see as many breeders as you can. In doing so, make sure you tour their facility and talk with them in person.

When you go to the breeder’s home, there are many things to look for that will indicate their qualifications. Initially, observe the place where the dog is being raised. Take notice if the dog is kept in the home, around family, or in a caged area. A good breeder will raise the dog in a healthy, clean, roomy environment, where it can interact with people, and not in a confined space. Examine the dog’s appearance and its personality. Is the dog friendly and happy to be around new people? There may be a problem with the way it was raised if it shies away from you. Does the dog look healthy? Ask to see the litter it came from and one, or both, of its parents. A good breeder will want you to spend time with the puppy’s parents. Also, the dog should not be afraid of the breeder. It is wise to avoid a breeder who has a large number of dogs; this might indicate he is operating a puppy mill and not a dog breeding service. A good breeder will only breed one or two types of breeds. They will usually not have any ready and will, instead, have to place you on a list for the next litter.

Next is the questioning period. Ask the breeder questions, and expect him to ask as many in return. A good breeder is concerned with the welfare of the dog and will want to be sure it is getting placed in a good home. He will ask questions about your lifestyle and will want to meet the whole family. The breeder is very knowledgeable about breeds, their temperament and feeding, as well as, possible genetic problems. Take advantage of this knowledge to become more informed about your future pet.

A good breeder will also offer advice and guidance on raising your dog, and provide assistance to you even after you have taken it home. They will also offer a contract and a health guarantee, since testing on the dog will have taken place. They will present medical records from veterinarian visits. They will also supply you with references from other families who have obtained pets from their service.

Looking for a good dog breeder takes time and investigative work. By observing the breeder’s living environment, and asking questions, you will be able to pick a reputable breeder who can pair you up with a pet that will fit your lifestyle perfectly.