More tips for looking for a good breeder!!
In yesterday’s entry, I introduced tips for looking and knowing a good breeder when in search of a dog. The tips came from a website, highlighted in the last entry as well. Check it out here. The site comes to us from Kate Connick and I truly appreciate the detail and ease of the information provided.
It is important to know if the breeder shows their dogs to demonstrate important characteristics such as obedience and agility. According to Ms. Connick breeders that show and allow their dogs to compete tend to have a higher commitment to breeding. This doesn’t guarantee the quality of the breeder but can be a good indicator.
Another important criteria is whether the breeder actively screens the dogs for genetic health defects. Some dogs are genetically predisposed to certain illnesses and ailments such as hip displaysia, eye disorders, hypothyroidism, etc. If you have a breeder that is reluctant to discuss the health issues of a particular breed or is defensive when you ask about such things, then beware. People who claim that their breed is magnificently healthy without any breed specific weaknesses needs to be avoided as well. Everyone knows that nothing is perfect and that includes dog breeds as well. The breeder should be familiar with the history of the breed, its strengths and weaknesses and should welcome your questions regarding such issues.
Observation is a key thing when looking for a breeder. Check out what type of dogs are on the premises. Are all of the dogs young? Does the breeder have dogs of that breed as pets? How old are the dogs that the breeders have and if they have died what was the cause? These are some specific questions that can be asked in order to guage additional info about the breeder.
As with anything, you want the breeder to be able to give you references. This is a tricky area, as most people are not going to refer you to someone who will say anything bad. But in addition to the references, will the breeder give you the name of the vet that they have used consistently to care for the breeder’s own dogs as well as those he/she breeds?
Anything that is worth doing is worth doing right, and that includes obtaining a dog from a breeder. Take the time, do the research and don’t be afraid to say “no” if it just doesn’t sound right. As with most things, “go with your gut” as it will be the best indicator, in addition to all the information you gather, that will provide you with the best breeder and then the best dog for you and your family.
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