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.