When choosing to add a new dog to the family, the process can be overwhelming and daunting to navigate—on top of managing all the excitement. There are multiple avenues available, from deciding which breeds you are considering to choosing whether to purchase from a breeder, adopt from a shelter, or take a dog home from a rescue. If going with a breeder is the route you ultimately choose, it’s important to do this correctly and find someone who is ethically and responsibly producing puppies with a purpose as well as a pedigree. Making the right selection here is a must, as not every puppy produced comes from a responsible breeder who cares about the welfare of the breed.
Here’s a look at five reasons to buy from a responsible breeder and what to look for.
Some of the most heartbreaking stories in dog ownership come from people buying dogs whose parents were not health tested; the puppies of those dogs can develop a genetic issue that leads to low quality of life or even death in their early years. The likelihood of this can be greatly lessened by buying from a responsible breeder who health tests their dogs for all the genetic health issues associated with that particular breed. Look up health testing information for your chosen breed by going to that breed’s parent club website, found on the AKC (American Kennel Club) website page for that breed. Some breeds even participate in certifications, such as those provided by the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals).
Breeding for sound temperament and engaging in temperament testing are two things at the forefront of importance for all responsible breeders. Longtime breeders with a positive reputation often won’t even consider breeding animals that have displayed any signs of overt aggression or reactiveness, and many get temperament certifications on their dogs before
breeding them. Especially for families that have young children and other pets in the house, this safety measure is essential for creating the best situation for everyone involved.
Breeders, especially those recognized by AKC parent clubs or who are AKC Breeders of Merit, have often dedicated their lives to their breeds, diligently working towards producing the best prospects possible to represent their kennel name. Breeders who have been mentored by others can provide a wealth of information that cannot be obtained from a backyard breeder. This is of particular value to first-time puppy buyers, and helps to ensure a happy life for both puppy and owner. And, if the prospective owner wishes to pursue breeding later on, they are in the right hands to gain the necessary knowledge and support.
Reputable breeders are there for their puppies and puppy owners for each dog’s lifetime. Responsible breeders are willing and able to take a dog back and find it a better-fitting home at any time, should the new owner not be able to keep the animal. In addition, if the dog turns out to not fulfill its purpose for which it was bought (i.e., a Conformation prospect), the breeder may offer a replacement puppy/dog and then find a new suitable home for the original puppy.
It is sheer luck if a dog from a backyard breeder turns out to be the ultimate Conformation show dog or an ace hunter, herder, tracker, etc. Acquiring the ideal candidate for any of these dog sports comes down to specialized breeding and training, something you can only find in a responsible breeder who is dedicated to their craft. Breeders who are focused on producing Performance, Companion, and Conformation prospects consistently and actively title their dogs, which will be reflected heavily in a dog’s pedigree.
