Thinking about getting a puppy

[doglovera1]

I'm thinking about getting a puppy... in fact I'm actually on a waiting list already. I was wondering if anyone has any advice on how to make sure the breeder you choose is legitimate, etc. I have heard a lot of bad news about 'puppy farms'...

[Patty]

unfortunately, there really aren't many resources on the internet for good breeder information. i think the guys making this website are building out a breeder finder service that will filter out puppy farms - you may have to wait for them to finish, because i don't think anyone else is doing it.

[rottnhart]

First read..a lot, about your breed. Be sure your family situation can handle that breed.
You should find the National Club for your breed of interest and see if they have a breeder listing. If not, see if they have a list of local clubs, then contact those clubs. Ask te breeder plenty of questions. A reputable breeder will have some for you too. How many litters do they have per year, have contract, parents on site, how long with this breed, do they show or trial dogs, do they breed healthy dogs(hips,elbows,heart,soundness,etc). Puppy mills,puppy farms and backyard breeders don't breed for quality even if they claim to. They breed for the greed. If they claim they have Ch. parents and Ch in the bloodline ask for proof. If you pay less than $1000 with full AKC registration, more than likely quality is compromised. Use caution. Just because you may pay more than that at a pet store/mall, it doesn't mean they are good either. Malls buy from puppy mills and have a high mark-up. that is why they sell cheaper when the pups get older. They buy in such bulk that they pay only $50 to $100 per dog.

[dragongsd]

What breed sometimes that will help to, if it's a popular breed then
you need to be more careful.

[CaptainCrunch]

its also a good idea to go visit the breeder and meet the parents of your puppy. puppies are always like their parents, of course, so by meeting the parents, you'll meet your future child. this way, you can also ask to see any papers or pedigrees in person.