What to Look for in a Breeder

Shelagh MacDonald

They breed no more than three or four litters per year and have only one or two different breeds.
They don’t breed dogs less than 18 months old or older than seven, and females are not bred more than once a year.
They discuss the health concerns in the breed and can show you health clearances for their breeding dogs – all breeds have some health issues.
They ask you lots of questions about how you will raise the puppy.
They will require you to sign a non-breeding agreement that prevents you from breeding the dog and registering the puppies with the Canadian Kennel Club.
Their puppies don’t leave before seven weeks of age and are identified with a microchip or a legible tattoo.
They provide you with a veterinarian’s health and vaccination certificate for the puppy.
You should be able to meet the mother of the puppies and some other dogs, which should all be well groomed and sociable.
They belong to their national breed club and may participate in dog shows and other dog activities and will have plenty of prizes to show for it.
A good breeder would never sell a puppy to a pet store.
Don’t buy from anyone who requests additional money for registration papers.