<ol><br/><li><strong>How Long have you been involved with your breed?</strong></li><br/><li><strong>How many litters do you usually have in a year?</strong> <br /><br/>More than several litters is probably
Wednesday, October 24th 2007, 9:00 pm
By: News On 6
How Long have you been involved with your breed?
How many litters do you usually have in a year?
More than several litters is probably too many.
What are the health issues in the breed?
Breeders should know the health issues associated with their dogs.
What are the health issues in your family of dogs?
This should be an easy question for a breeder to answer.
How old are your puppies when you sell them?
Reputable breeders do not release their puppies until they are at least eight weeks old; in some states, it is illegal to sell a puppy before that age.
Will the puppy have had all of the necessary inoculations when we get it?
Reputable breeders have vaccinated their puppies, wormed, etc.
Do you screen your breeding dogs for health issues?
Reputable breeders will test the parents for genetic problems and have the paper work to back up the tests.
Do you give a written contract?
There can be misunderstandings if you do not get something in writing, and if things go bad it's your word against theirs.
May I meet the parents? Can I see the area where they dogs are kept?
A good breeder will show you where the dogs eat and sleep, and the parents if they are on site. Sometimes breeders fly studs in for breeding a litter.
What dog organizations are you involved with?
Breeders who do not answer to a knowledgeable dog organization may be a red flag.
Can I breed my dog if I want to?
Good breeders don't want just anyone breeding. It can lead to more health problems in the breed.
For more tips on evaluating a dog breeder, click here.