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How To Buy a Good Dog
So you have decided
you want a puppy? You have done all your homework to
decide the breed you want and you know you have the
finances, time and energy to take care of it. Next step
is to find a breeder and purchase a puppy.
Be warned...purchasing a puppy from
a breeder can be fraught with risks. As in any business
there are those breeders who are genuine, who care for
their animals and whose reputation is important to them
and others, often known as backyard breeders, who are
only interested in making a fast buck. It is now up
to you to find a honest and reliable breeder.
Do some research before contacting any
breeders. Contact the kennel club of the breeds you
are interested in and request a list of their breeders.
The Internet can also be a good source to find and research
breeding kennels. Ask friends who have dogs of that
breed where they purchased them from and if they are
happy with their chosen dog.
Shows are another place where you can
meet breeders and see their animals, both in a show
environment and in kennels before and after the show.
Just remember this is a busy time for the breeder and
they may not have a lot of time to chat. Get their details,
observe their animals and contact them at a less busy
time.
Visit the breeders facilities before
even choosing a puppy to see how the animals are cared
for. Do not buy the first puppy you see. A good breeder
will want to ensure you are a suitable owner just as
much as you want to ensure they breed quality animals.
Look for clean facilities with healthy, clean dogs that
are free of parasites. The dogs should behave in a manner
you would wish your future dog to behave e.g., if the
majority dogs appear to be timid and afraid it is a
safe bet any pups will be of a similar disposition.
Ask the breeder questions...
- How long have they been breeding dogs?
- What is the pedigree of the animal you are considering
purchasing.
- Are both parents at the kennel?
- Are there veterinary certificates available for both
parents and offspring?
- What screening has been done for any common health
issues for the particular breed?
- What guarantee will they offer if the pup proves to
have any major health issues within a short time of
purchase?
The breeder should also ask you questions
like...
- Do you have a house/yard suitable
for the animal?
- Do you have the time to care for it?
- Are you fully aware of what is required to care for
the animal?
- Will the dog be a pet or for breeding/showing?
- Do you have children and their ages?
Breeders are well within their rights
to refuse to sell a pup to anyone they consider not
suitable as an owner of their dogs.
A sales agreement should be signed by
both parties outlining the obligations of both purchaser
and seller.
The breeder will possibly offer advice
on feeding, grooming, health care and equipment you
may need as well as a schedule for all necessary immunizations.
A reputable breeder will also ensure
you do not take your puppy home too early to ensure
it gets early socialization with its siblings. A puppy
removed from its litter too early may fear other dogs
for the rest of its life. While six weeks is the time
many puppies are taken to new homes, many breeders prefer
to retain the pup until they are around nine weeks old.
Once you have collected your puppy keep
in touch with the breeder as they will be a fountain
of knowledge for you regarding your new dog and often
like to keep track of their animals.
If you do all your homework and purchase
from a reputable breeder you will have a dog that will
be a wonderful part of your family for the next 12 to
15 years. Enjoy...
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