Questions to Ask Breeders

So, you're looking for a new puppy.   Congratulations!  You're about to begin a wonderful relationship that will hopefully last 13 years or more.  It's worth the time *now* to ensure you find a puppy that will be a good-natured, healthy dog that is a great representative of the breed of your choice. 

First, ask yourself some questions.   What kind of dog are you looking for?  Do you want a dog that is content to stay at home and laze the days away, or do you need a jogging companion?   Can you afford to have the dog professionally groomed once a month, or do you need an easy maintenance pet?  Will the dog be a companion to children?  If so, what are their ages, and what breed of dog will be a good choice for them?  Do you have the time to devote to training and playing with a new puppy?    Can you tolerate hair around your house, or would you prefer a "non-shedding" breed?

Once you've asked and answered these questions and done a bit of research into what breed may be right for your family and lifestyle, you're ready to start looking for a responsible breeder that can not only provide you with a puppy, but also with information and assistance beyond the sale.  The following is a list of questions to help you determine which breeders are responsible and have the welfare of the breed at heart.   Happy searching!!

  What are the health problems in the breed?

A responsible breeder should be able to provide you with in depth information on the genetic pitfalls of their chosen breed. Each breed has their own set of genetic problems, and unless the breeder knows what they are, they have no way of avoiding them. In Shelties, some of these would be hip dysplasia, vonWillebrand's Disease (a blood clotting disorder), eye problems, and thyroid disorders.

  What kind of testing do you do to ensure your breeding stock is clear of these health threats?

There are tests for many, though not all, genetic disorders. These tests can determine not only if the dog is affected, but also, in some cases, if the dog is a genetic "carrier" of the defective gene. Responsible breeders avail themselves of these tests to ensure that their breeding stock tests normal. This does not guarantee that they cannot produce an affected puppy, but it does put the odds on their side! Steer clear of any breeder that says words to the effect of: I've never had that/those problems, so I don't need to test. If they've never tested, how do they *know* if the problem is there or not? For Shelties, there are tests available for all 4 of the disorders listed above.

  Do you exhibit your dogs in conformation and/or performance events?

The goal of most responsible breeders is the betterment of the breed. In order to ensure only those dogs worthy of improving the breed are bred, responsible breeders test them against other examples of the breed in conformation shows, obedience trials, etc. It is a good gauge of whether the breeder actually has the well-being of the breed at heart, rather than financial gain. Showing dogs is not only an expensive, sometimes frustrating pursuit, it is the best way to determine how your dogs stack up against others of the same breed.

  Are you a member of your local breed club? Your national breed club?

Local and national clubs are a good way for breeders to keep current on what is happening in their breed. In addition, most breed clubs have a "code of ethics" their breeders are expected to follow. Breeders that are active in their local and/or national breed club are more likely to have the information they need to breed responsibly.

  At what age do you send your puppies to new homes?

Responsible breeders will not send puppies to new homes before they are at least 7 weeks of age. Prior to this age, puppies need socialization with their littermates so they can learn how to interact with other dogs. They also learn such things as dominant/submissive behaviors, play behaviors and bite inhibition during this crucial stage. Steer clear of any breeder that will send a puppy home before 7 weeks of age. In addition, most responsible breeders are looking for that next "show hopeful", and often that will not be apparent until 8-12 weeks of age.

  What is a typical temperament for your breed?

Responsible breeders are well aware that temperament is as hereditary as any other trait. They should be able to paint you a picture of the "typical" breed specimen, as well as tell you how closely that applies to their own dogs. This one will require some give and take, as *you* will need to let the breeder know what you cannot tolerate temperament-wise. They will then be able to help you decide if theirs is the right breed for you and your lifestyle.

  What would you consider the major "drawbacks" to your breed?

All breeds have their negative side.....be it a coat that matts easily and requires lots of brushing/grooming, or a coat that sheds. Some breeds are stubborn/difficult to train or housebreak. Some breeds are reserved with strangers. Some are difficult to contain, as they quickly learn to navigate over or under fences. Some are "talkative". Responsible breeders should be able to give the ins and outs of their breed - the good *and* bad. Again, this will help you determine if this is the correct breed for your lifestyle.