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If you've decided that a purebred dog is the right pet for you, educate yourself on the breed of your choice. The next step
will then be to be to locate a responsible, professional breeder. Breeders can be located through veterinarian's offices, dog
clubs, the Canadian Kennel club or through referrals.
What defines a responsible breeder?
A responsible, professional breeder breeds to improve the breed and their bloodlines. They are not breeding for financial gain.
A responsible breeder will believe they are responsible for any of the puppies they breed for its' entire life.
Responsible breeders will not sell to unsuitable homes and often their puppies will be spoken for before birth. You will rarely
see a professional breeder advertising in you local classifieds.
Questions for you to ask:
How many dogs does the breeder have and how often are they bred?
A responsible breeder usually only breeds one breed of dog, has limited amounts of litters to each female and stops breeding
the females by the age of six.
What is the breeder's experience with this breed?
Many breeders have extensive knowledge of their breed of choice and often are involved in showing their animals and
members of Dog Clubs or organizations.
Are their dogs CKC registered?
Dogs can only be called "purebred" if they have CKC registration. The puppy should come with registration papers from the
Canadian Kennel Club. These papers should be provided at no extra cost. These papers are not indication of good health.
The breeder should be able to show you pedigrees detailing the puppy's ancestry.
How are prospective buyers and puppies matched?
The breeder should carefully consider you and your family's lifestyle when matching the you with the right puppy.
Where are the dogs housed? Can you see this area?
All animals should be housed in the breeder's home or in well lit, ventilated and heated kennels. The kennels should be clean,
spacious and have ample bedding.
What are the characteristics of the breed?
The breeder should educate you on the breed and responsible pet care.
What types of genetic problems is this breed prone to?
The breeder should be able to provide you with detailed information on any health problems the breed is predisposed to.
Does the breeder provide a health guarantee?
The breeder should provide written guarantees of the health of their dogs and puppies. The parents of the puppies should have
certification that they are free of any genetic disorders.
Have their puppies received any veterinary care?
Puppies should have had a vet check, first vaccinations, and deworming. You should be provided with a schedule detailing future
vet visits that will be required.
Is there a spay/neuter contract? How is the contract enforced?
The breeder should have a non-breeding contract and some method of enforcement.
What is their policy on returns?
The breeder should be willing to take back any of the puppies or adult dogs at any time.
What steps are taken to socialize each puppy?
Socialization is an important step in a puppy's development. Have the puppies been exposed to children, other dogs, cats and
a variety of people?
Will the breeder be available to answer questions and give advice?
The breeder should be willing to provide you with continued advice and support.
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