Reputable Dog Breeders

The weather is getting warmer and families are starting their hunt for their next canine companion. Some will opt to contact local dog rescues while other will want to purchase their pup from a reputable breeder. Although the Lab Brats would prefer you rescue a dog from a local rescue or shelter, they do want to make sure that if you do choose to buy your next dog from a breeder, that you pick a reputable one. Hence, they have asked that the following list of top questions to ask your breeder before purchasing be republished from their website.

Top Questions to Determine if your Breeder is Reputable

Not sure if your breeder is reputable. Make sure to ask them the following questions before signing any contract or exchanging money:

• Can you see one or more of the parents?
• Will you be given a minimum 3 generation pedigree?
• If advertised as “champion-lines” are the champions within the first 3 generations?
• If there a return policy if the puppy doesn’t work out?
• Are you able to see the whole pedigree? (provided the litter isn’t over 8 weeks)
• Does the breeder acknowledge there are hereditary diseases within the breed?
• Does the breeder offer a guarantee against hereditary diseases?
• Do the parents of this litter have their health clearances and can you see their certificates?
• Are the puppies raised in a home environment?
• Are the surroundings clean?
• Are you able to take a “tour” of the facilities?
• Does the breeder provide you with a record of the inoculations, wormings, etc.?
• Are you satisfied with the temperaments of the puppies and/or parents?
• Is the breeder charging you extra for the registration papers?
• Are you able to talk to the breeder and obtain all of the information you need?
• Is the litter socialized and how?
• Are the puppies microchipped prior to going home?

Remember that if you don't feel comfortable around the breeder, do not purchase the pup. Use your gut instinct. And, whatever you do, please do not purchase a dog from the local pet store as those puppies come from puppy mills and very bad conditions.