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So you’ve decided to buy a puppy. Whether the dog is for you or is a gift you will want to make the best possible decision when selecting a puppy. Once you have determined that having a new pet in your home is appropriate (space, time, and expense-wise) you will need to decide which type or breed of dog to seek out. There are many books at your local bookstore or library that will describe and display photos of almost every dog breed in existence. You will want to know if you prefer a small (toy), medium, or large sized dog; a dog with long or short hair; and what you will expect of your new companion – watchdog, guardian of children, energetic and athletic, hunting, herding, etc.
Once you have decided on the type of dog you would like, it’s time to begin researching breeders. Its best to avoid retail pet stores, inexperienced breeders, and kennel breeders. Pets sold through retail stores are usually seen and treated as merchandise with the emphasis on profit and not animal health and proper socialization. New breeders or backyard breeders may not have the proper knowledge and experience for producing healthy litters of puppies. Large kennel breeders may also be like retail stores in that the animals do not receive much individual attention and the environment may not be kept up to sanitary and health standards.
The best breeders are hobby breeders who are very knowledgeable about one or two breeds and raise the animals out of a love for working with dogs. There are many online sites to help you locate local breeders. You should visit as many as possible and try not to fall for the first puppy you see, although it will be hard.
A good breeder will meet the following requirements:
* The breeder is well informed about the breed and can give you information about the health, diet, exercise, and grooming needs of the breed. Be sure you’ve done your homework too, so you can separate the good information from the bad.
* The environment is clean and neat. Animals have shiny, health coats, and evidence of plenty of food and water.
* The breeder has a policy that the puppies must be at least seven weeks old before being separated from their mother.
* The breeder asks you questions about your home and lifestyle to ensure that puppies go to a good home.
* The breeder gives a guarantee that the animal can be returned (not necessarily money refunded) if you are ever unable to care for the animal.
* The breeder provides proper medical certification of veterinary attention, inoculations, and health of the parents of the puppy.
* Parents of the puppy are at least two years old and all animals hold proper breed certification and registration.
* The breeder belongs to a breeder association or kennel club.
* Puppies have been introduced to other animals and to children as part of the socialization process.
* The breeder offers a contract and a guarantee that a refund will be given for puppies with genetic health problems during the first two years.
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