Questions to Ask a Dog Breeder

The breeder should be open with you about the program and where they hope to go with it. Avoid the breeder who insists there are no better dogs around then his.

Can you see the pedigrees of both sire and dam? Can you see at least the dam?

The sire may not be on site but the dam should be. If not, you could be dealing with a broker (one who sells dogs not bred by that person).

What type of contract does the breeder have for pet or show puppies (it should include a spay/neuter agreement and health guarantee)?

Do not get pressured into becoming contracted to show or breed your dog – even if you do plan to show and possibly get into breeding someday. Everything should be spelled out in the contract. And be wary of a breeder sells you a young puppy that is "definitely show quality." So much happens during growth and development – the younger the puppy; the harder it is to tell show quality. A breeder who really knows the breed can tell if a young pup has POTENTIAL but should not be guaranteeing the dog will be a show dog.

What does the breeder feed the puppies?

(Continued on next page)