Ask Your Breeder the Right Questions

Breeding dogs is not for amateurs. Gather background information and make a list of question for your breeder prior to purchasing a dog from them. It will not take a lot of time or effort to make sure the breeder is responsible and knowledgeable. Before investing in a Vittles Vault, toys and a cushioned dog bed, take a few minutes to ask the breeder a few questions. There are many reputable dog breeders out there these days, but there are also those who are less than honest. Poor breeding practices can result in genetic defects that arise later in life. Some questions to ask a dog breeder include:

• Do you provide any guarantees? Reputable dog breeders will stand behind their dogs and guarantee good health.
• Ask about problems with the breed and see what the breeder has done to address them. They should be well-versed on these issues.
• What type of socialization have the puppies had? Look for breeders who handle the puppies and expose them to a variety of situations and people.

While this is not a comprehensive list, it will provide a starting point in terms of questions to ask dog breeders. Check with a veterinarian for more information prior to looking for a purebred dog.