| A good breeder does much more than just put mom | | | | the less than great breeders in an area are. When dog |
| and dad puppy in a room, lower the lights, light the | | | | breeders have problems with their dogs, either |
| candles, pour the puppy catnip, and play a little Johnny | | | | physically or emotionally, they will eventually end up |
| Mathis music. That's only the beginning. They do their | | | | turning to a breeder. The not so great dog breeders, |
| best to ensure the best of breed for their hopefully | | | | will show up at the vets a lot. |
| strong and healthy dogs. There are characteristics | | | | Narrowing The List |
| within every breed standard that has been agreed | | | | Not all breeders breed dogs for the same reasons. |
| upon. Good breeders will also do their best to pick out | | | | Find out why breeders breed their dogs. Some may |
| good owners, that to the best of their ability will love | | | | be breeding their dogs for show. Dogs with |
| and care for their puppies. And to that end they try to | | | | characteristics good for showing do not necessarily |
| educate owners with helpful information about the | | | | make good family pets. As well, some breeders with |
| breed of dog they are buying. Not an inclusive list, but | | | | showing in mind, may want to keep the pick of the |
| things like diet, health issues, and immunizations are | | | | litters for themselves. This of course narrows down |
| things that any good breeder should be knowledgeable | | | | the choice of puppies available for you. Some show |
| of and willing to share. | | | | breeders do allow their pups to be sold on a 'pet only' |
| Best In Show, Or Barely Making The Grade | | | | basis. It may be a little cheaper, but if all you wanted |
| Your national kennel association or club will be able to | | | | was a family pet, then this may be ideal for you. |
| provide you with a list of names of breeders in good | | | | If your still having doubts, let your instincts guide you. If |
| standing within their organization. If your breed is a | | | | the puppies seem well cared for, healthy and happy, |
| popular one, and there are dog clubs in your area, | | | | then all is probably well. Try and see both parents as |
| there will be plenty of people with advice on good and | | | | well. At least the mother. If they also look happy and |
| bad breeders in your area. Talk to friends, family, or | | | | healthy, then that's another good sign. Remember, the |
| colleagues that have the breed of dog you're looking | | | | breeder only cares for the puppies during a very short |
| at. If they had problems, or a great experience, they | | | | time in their life. It's you and how you care for your |
| would be able to tell you where they got their dog. | | | | new puppy, that really make the difference in the long |
| Veterinarians usually have a pretty good idea of who | | | | run. |