Questions to ask a Breeder
By
Lee Weston
 
        Ask these questions before you view and/or meet those adorable, cuddly, in-your-face, lick-your-nose puppies.
1. How long has the breeder been involved with their particular breed ?
    (if the breeder has more than 3 breeds - exercise caution)
2. Why did they choose this particular breed ?
3. For what purpose did they choose to breed these dogs ?
4. Are the Sire and/or the Dam on the Breeder's premises ?
5. Could you meet one, or both, of the parents ?
6. Are the dogs and puppies raised in the house, or in the kennels ? (Judge environment)
7. What does the breeder do to insure proper socialization of the dogs and puppies ?
8. At what age do you place puppies ?
9. Do you require that pet puppies be spayed or neutered ?
10. What dog clubs (Obedience club, breed clubs, Agility clubs, Schutzhund clubs, etc.) do they belong to ?
11. Are BOTH the sire and dam OFA certified ? Ask to see their OFA papers, if hip dysplasia is common in that paticular breed.
12. What other test or health scans have they had their dogs checked for ?
13. What health guarantees will the breeder provide ?
14. Will the breeder allow you time (to be determined) to have the puppy examined by your own vet ?
     If there are health problems, will the breeder allow you to return the puppy ?
Expect a good breeder to be very selective about you. They will be asking questions of you, too. These puppies are the breeder's "babies."  If the breeder doesn't Care, if the breeder doesn't answer your questions or even asks questions FIND A DIFFERENT BREEDER.

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