ASCA - AKC - OFA - CERF Australian Shepherds

Finding the Right Breeder and the Right Puppy

You've made your decision--

your new family pet will be a purebred registered puppy!

• You understand that bringing a pet into your family means a long-term commitment to the animal's health and well being.
• You willingly accept that responsibility.
• You've researched the breed of your choice.

By choosing a purebred puppy you know:

• How your dog will look.
• How big the dog will grow to be.
• The general adult characteristics of your chosen breed.
• The dog's likely temperament

You believe this breed will fit harmoniously into your life.

So now the real work begins.

People often say they want to buy their puppy from a reputable breeder. A good reputation, however, does not guarantee a thing. For a reputation to be meaningful, the breeder must be ethical.

What is an ethical breeder?

• Ethical breeders invest much of their lives into the dog fancy.
• They spend a good amount of time and money attending lectures, seminars, and dog shows learning the basics of structure, function and genetics--not to mention the investment of years it takes to truly appreciate the essence of any breed.
• They know about the health problems in their breed, and they are committed to a careful breeding program.
• They do genetic testing and can readily produce proof of testing.
• They regularly exhibit their dogs in competition under licensed judges to prove the quality of their animals against the breed standard. Earning championships is one of the minimum standards breeders should hold for their dogs.
• They screen potential puppy homes and require buyers to sign a contract. Your puppy will be sold on a non-breeding contract with a spay/neuter clause with registration papers included in the price of the puppy.
• They expect the purchaser to remain in contact periodically for the life of the dog.
• They will always take the puppy back should unforeseen circumstances arise.

Where do you find an ethical breeder?

Chances are slim that you will find one in the classifieds or bargain guides. Also with today's access to the Internet you can find many breeder/kennel web sites. Beware. A good web designer can use words and photos to create the illusion that a breeder is experienced and caring.

Take the more direct route!

Attend dog shows where you can watch the breed of your choice in the ring. When you see a dog you like, approach the handler after he or she leaves the ring. Understand that breeders might not have a lot of time to talk to you right then, since they may have other dogs to show, but you can at least introduce yourself and get a card or phone number. You can also purchase a catalog at the show and mark the dogs you like. There is always an index with breeders' addresses, so you can call the breeder at a more convenient time.

Local dog clubs and breed specific clubs may have referral lists of breeders. Ask around; ethical breeders have supporters among their peers and admirers.

Breeders will be happy to talk about their dogs with you when you ask intelligent questions. Expect to answer more questions than you ask. Answer the questions as honestly as you can. The information you provide helps the breeder to match your home with the puppy most suitable.

Be patient! You may need to wait for the right pup. The breeder may put you on a waiting list for the right puppy, or they may refer you to another breeder.

Recognize the "red flags"

When you visit a breeder to look at a litter of pups, never purchase a puppy because you think you are rescuing it from a bad situation. If at any time you get a little "red flag" about the breeder's dogs or the breeder, rethink the situation.

Red flags might include:

• dogs that are overly shy or that growl,
• unkempt or unclean premises
• or someone who is actively breeding many breeds of dogs.

You may need to wait for the right pup. Remember that all puppies are adorable. This is a choice that must be made more with the head than with the heart. No one said it would be easy.

Get more information

How do you find dog shows in your location?
Visit one of these web sites.

MB-F Dog Show Events

Jim Rau Shows

Jack Onofrio Dog Shows

ASCA Events

Kevin Rogers Dog Shows

Roy Jones Dog Shows

Canadian Kennel

Club Western Dog Shows (Canada)

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