We get it! Puppies are cute. And it’s easy to justify getting a puppy from a breeder because you are in charge of the dog’s learning from the start! No risky shelter behaviors that you have to spend time un-training. No crazy habits to break. No fixing someone else’s problem.

Or are puppies all that and more?

“Reputable” and responsible breeders are few and far between these days. Simply because a person is listed on a breed or club site is not enough to make them responsible.

You must do your research thoroughly and repeatedly. More and more “reputable breeder” dogs are filling the animal shelters across the US and UK (and many other countries that do not have adoption and breeding controls). Honestly, some of the street dogs in countries are healthier and happier than the breeds we are creating today. We have bred dogs that have heart problems, can’t breath, have skin issues, can’t digest food to get enough nutrients, have flat faces that cause so many issues, and far too many are born Cesarean because they can’t actually be born naturally. Mother Nature certainly did NOT have a hand in that. It’s all humans and our need for the look of perfection and design.

However, this is a DOG, not a handbag or a regal statue.

It is perfectly fine to go to a breeder! Just have your questions and wallet ready. A responsible breeder will NOT be selling at a discount, as they should not. It takes a LOT of time and financial resources to breed conscientiously, respectably and with the dog’s health in mind first.

Oh, and your neighbor who had a super cute dog they decided to breed with their cousin’s other super awesomely friendly dog? Nope, THAT is not in the pool of responsible breeding. In fact, I’ll put my own neck on the line and say we should really have penalties against backyard breeding until we can get our shelter overflow problem under control (but that’s a rant for another day.

How DO you find a responsible breeder? Start by having this list of questions ready…

Ask to meet the parents (dog, not human!)

It is important to meet BOTH the puppy’s parents so you get a better idea of what you can expect from your dog as an adult. Understandably, sometimes the male/stud/sire will not be in the area as many breedings are planned and the male is just not needed after the female is pregnant. BUT, a responsible breeder WILL be able to tell you all about the male, have pictures, breed line papers and you should be able to speak to the owners of the sire should you ask. That kind of thing is NOT a secret. It’s ALL the breeders have to market their dogs.

Meeting the parents will give you some idea of how big the dog may get, what they look like, their temperament/behavior and long-term health. Puppies are so cute, but their parents give you a look at the future.

HINT: If the parents are NOT available to meet in person, say thank you and move on!

Have health tests been performed on the parents? Which tests will be performed on the puppies before adoption?

You want to be sure that the breeder has tested the parents to be sure that they are healthy and have no genetic diseases common to the breed. The tests can vary by breed, but generally include orthopedic, medical and temperament tests.

Medical Tests for Puppies, Prior to Adoption include:

• Fecal testing usually between 4-6 weeks of age.

• Pups should have been examined by a veterinarian prior to release to their new homes.

• Usually pups have had at least one deworming, and depending on age, may or may not have received any vaccinations prior to sale/adoption.

  This article from Ethos Vet Health that describes tests in more detail.

How long have you been breeding? What is their experience with this breed?

You’ll want to know what experience the breeder has with breeding and their specific breed. They should be knowledgeable about the breed’s strengths and weaknesses and any genetic diseases that might affect the breed. Along these lines, you might want to ask the breeder if they are involved in any breed clubs, organizations, or canine sports. All of that gives you information about how involved they are with that breed.

HINT: Be aware of breeders that recently switched breeds. There are breeders who stake their reputation on years of one breed, but switch suddenly and use their past reputation on a new breed about which they may not have as much knowledge. It’s not wrong, in and of itself, just ask questions as to why they changed breeds and how involved are they in the NEW breed.

How do they socialize the puppies?

It is very important that puppies are properly socialized so they become well-adjusted dogs. This begins with the breeder and in fact, most of the puppies critical socialization period is over before you even bring the dog home! You want to find out if the puppies have been around people and dogs Are they comfortable in the environment YOU plan for a puppy (eg household, farm, ranch, busy environment, etc). Puppies should not be overly shy or scared, nor should they dominate the pack. Early and proper socialization will help the puppy adjust to new surrounding and life when you bring them home.

There is a LOT of mis-information on socialization and the critical socialization period. The time of 3-12 weeks of age for a dog is the socialization phase. Primary/Critical socialization takes place between 3-5 weeks and is the most influential stage in a puppy’s life relative to their social behavior patterns and learning.

Once YOU get the dog, your job is training and adjustment. Proper socialization incudes good experiences in lots of situations, not just exposing your dog to the most stuff possible.

How are the dogs fed once they are weened from their mother?

Do they puppies have plenty of access to food and water or do they share one bowl? Puppies who share a bowl can often develop a level of resource guarding because they are used to fighting for access to their food. It’s best if a breeder has multiple bowls with plenty of food and space for the puppies to eat at their own pace.

Are the puppies up-to-date on vaccinations?

You should be sure that the breeder has taken the puppy to a veterinarian and knows where they are on their shot-schedule. This will also help you, so that you have the proper medical information when you bring the puppy home and you will know what shots they will need next. Ask to SEE the vet records.

Does the breeder provide a health guarantee and a contract?

It is important to find out what kind of guarantee the breeder provides with their puppies. What happens if you find the puppy has a serious health condition? If you can no longer care for the puppy due to health issues, will the breeder reclaim it?

When will you be able to take the puppy home?

The breeder should tell you not to expect to bring home the puppy until it is eight to 12 weeks of age. Puppies need ample time to mature and socialize with their mother and litter mates. You also want to be aware of puppies that stay too long with their litter mates as they can develop some order of sibling rivalry or attachment that can be harder to break once you are home. While not a solid rule, resist the yearning to buy two puppies from the same litter. There can be issues in the future with litter mates.

How can you contact the breeder after picking up the puppy?

The breeder should be willing to give you their contact information and encourage you to contact them with any questions or concerns you may have. Breeders are an excellent resource and breed mentor for you throughout your dog’s life.

What requirements do you have for people looking to get one of your puppies?

Breeders should be willing to answer any questions you have. They should ask many questions of you, as well. Breeders will want to make sure their puppies are going to good homes, with people who know what to expect and have made all the necessary preparations.

Have fun picking out a puppy that is right for you, your family and your lifestyle. Take your time! And, with the shelters as full as they are in 2023, we encourage you to adopt a dog from a shelter rather than find a back yard breeder. And NEVER buy dogs via an online post, through a pet store or from any over breeder or puppy mill. Mixed breeds and rescues are often your best friend because they have not been overbred with health and stability issues.