Where and How to Find a Reputable Dog Breeder

Finding a breeder you trust is your first step to finding your new four-legged best friend. Breeders are extremely useful resources for you throughout your dog’s lifetime. Think of a breeder as your own private guide to all things dogs.

It is important to do your homework when choosing a breeder. Here are some tips for finding and working with a responsible breeder:

• Meet the breeder. The best way to meet a breeder is in person, which could be in their home or at their kennel. If this is not possible, set up a time to meet via a video conference. Observe the dogs and the breeders. Is the area clean? Does the breeder should genuine passion for dogs? Are the dogs well fed? How do the dogs interact with the breeder? Both dogs and puppies should not shy away from the breeder and should be outgoing with strangers.
• Ask questions! A benefit of working with a good breeder is that he or she can be counted on throughout your dog’s life. Prepare a list of questions about the breed or the puppy. Is the breeder patient with your questions? Does he/she explain things clearly? Do you feel like you have a good connection? Good breeders want to see their dogs in happy and loving homes and will be happy to share their knowledge with you.
• See the pup’s parents. This is the best way to predict what your dog will look like when he grows! It will give you a sense of size, appearance and temperament.
• Get a full medical history. Reputable breeders will be more than willing to show you proof of health screenings such as OFA and CERF certificates. They should also explain any health conditions common with that breed so you know what to watch out for.
• Be patient. Don’t expect to meet a breeder and come home with a puppy in the same day. Usually, the breeder will keep the puppy at the kennel for the first two or three months of its life, so it can mature and socialize with its mother and litter mates. These few months can give you time to puppy proof your home!

Check out AKC’s Breeder of Merit and Bred with H.E.A.R.T. Programs. AKC Breeders of Merit are dedicated to producing healthy, well-socialized puppies and preserving breed characteristics. Bred with H.E.A.R.T. breeders have continued their education and have met specific health testing standards.

Once you find the breeder you trust and want to work with, make sure to get documentation of your puppy’s pedigree. Don’t leave the premises without getting this! The words, “American Kennel Club” along with the AKC logo should be clearly visible. Be cautious of breeders who hesitate to give you papers or wants to charge you more, or tells you he/she will mail them to you at a later date.

Happy puppy finding!