Breeder Referral

You must ask questions, many questions. Have a list of questions on hand for your first contact with a breeder. If you call, always start by asking, “Is this a convenient time to speak?” Too often, a well-intentioned call comes at a very wrong time and a breeder may not be able to provide in-depth responses. Call or email to make a mutually convenient phone appointment. Your questions should include: How long have you been breeding? How many litters do you have each year? Do you show your dogs in breed, performance, and/or companion events? What health testing have you done on the parents of the puppy/dog? What health testing have you done on this puppy/dog? Be sure to refer to the OFA.org website to verify health testing information. Ask to see their sales contract. Review it carefully. Many breeders will ask you to complete a prospective owner’s questionnaire. That questionnaire will also give you an idea of the breeder’s concerns for their puppy/dog.

If you are uncomfortable with the breeder on the phone, or their responses to your questions, they may not be the right breeder for you. The commitment you will be taking on to your new puppy is lifelong, and that should be the same for the breeder.

Ask the breeder for references and be prepared to provide your references, as well.

While it is preferable to find a breeder within driving distance from your home, that may not always be possible. A Zoom or video chat may help you to establish a feel for the breeder if you can’t visit with them in person. Ask to see the mother of the litter and, if possible, the father too. Find out whether the breeder has a puppy available for you now, shortly, or is placing you on a waiting list for a future litter. Most breeders won’t ship an unaccompanied puppies, so find that out early in your conversation, if you are not within driving distance to pick up your puppy.

They are both wonderful. Be open to falling in love with either. “The females will love you, the males will adore you” is an often-heard comment. Each dog is different, and training and housebreaking varies dog-by-dog.

Do your research on specific breeds.

Ask for the breeder’s accomplishments in the show ring, at performance or companion events, or their other accomplishments such as Certified Therapy Dogs. Low on your list of questions should be the color or sex of available dogs. Be flexible in your preferences.

When you inquire about the cost of the puppy, find out what that price includes such as equipment provided, health guarantees, health testing, vaccinations, further assistance from the breeder, and future breeder involvement.