How to Choose a Dog Breeder.
There are a few ways to ethically acquire a dog these days. If you’re considering adding a dog to your family, chances are you’ve done some research on where to get your next pet. Both reputable rescues and reputable breeders are excellent places to find your next dog. In my last blog, I discussed finding a great shelter and adopting a dog. Today, we will explore how to find a great breeder and how to select the right dog for you.
Firstly, let’s discuss what constitutes a good breeder. Reputable breeders are people who responsibly and ethically breed pure bred dogs for the sake of bettering their chosen breed. They do extensive health and temperament testing on any potential breeding dogs and they are active in their various breed clubs. Good breeders register their litters, title their dogs and stay in contact with their “puppy parents”. Good breeders have contracts that state that any dog must come back to them if the owner can no longer keep their dog.
If a breeder does not check off all of those boxes AT LEAST, then run the other way!
Secondly, any breeder that mixes breeds, creates designer breeds, breeds for off colours or “rare colours” outside of their breed standard or does not provide full health testing is NOT a good breeder. Breeders that breed for off sizes (too small or too large) and use fad words such as “teacup” or “king sized” should also be avoided.
Any breeder that cannot provide full paper work and proof of health certificates, lineage, registration and a solid contract that you are comfortable with, should be passed on.
It is exceptionally important to do your research and familiarize yourself with the standard of any breed you are considering. Each breed standard denotes everything from temperament, personality, size, colour and history and is a great source when considering if a certain breed will fit into your life style.
Next, contact your local breed club and request a list of registered breeders in your area that breed the type of dog you’re interested in. Visiting dog shows, following and chatting with reputable breeders on social media and talking with people who have purchased dogs from a breeder you’re interested in, are all great resources for finding the right fit for your family.
Quality breeders want what is best for their dogs and should be willing to answer any and all questions you may have. Many breeders will even help families to ensure a good match by choosing the right pup in the litter based on personality and what you’re looking for.
Remember, great breeders will not have to advertise their litters in newspapers or on kijiji. They will not breed dogs unless they have a good reason to and they often have wait lists for puppies. This will often deter people who want a puppy “right now” but being patient and finding the right match will pay off in spades in the long term.
Your new dog is a 15 year commitment. It is worth it to be well educated and researched when it comes to considering a new pet. Being diligent in the foreground will save heartache in the future and insure you truly find the best match for your lifestyle.
About the author
Amanda Roman is a Certified Dog Trainer Educator (CTE) and is an alumni of the Hustle Up Dog Trainer Course. She started her career in the dog world at 15 years old as a dog groomer and has a keen interest and respect for all animals. She has a passion for educating dogs of all sizes and breeds and their human families. Amanda has been a Certified Dog Trainer / Educator for 15 years and is teaching group Dog Training Classes in Calgary. Her outgoing personality makes for super fun dog training classes for the whole family! She is also available for one-on-one Private Dog Training in the Calgary area. Sign up for dog classes today!
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