Bringing a new furry friend into your life is an exciting decision, but one that requires careful consideration.
Finding a reputable dog breeder who genuinely cares about their dogs’ well-being is crucial.
A good breeder will be happy to answer all your questions and provide you with the information you need to make an informed choice.
But what exactly should you ask?
Let’s explore some essential questions that can help you find the perfect pup from a responsible source.
Questions to Ask a Dog Breeder Before Committing
Before you fall head over heels for that adorable puppy, take a moment to gather some key details from the breeder. This will help ensure you’re getting a healthy, well-socialized dog from an ethical breeder who prioritizes their animals’ welfare.
1. Can I see where the puppies and mother are kept?
A responsible breeder will have no problem showing you the living conditions of their dogs. They should invite you to visit their home or breeding facility to meet the puppies and their mother in person. This gives you a chance to observe the environment firsthand.
You might politely ask, “Would it be possible for me to see where the puppies are being raised and meet their mother?” A good breeder understands that this is an important step for potential buyers.
If the breeder hesitates or makes excuses, consider it a red flag. A clean, spacious area where the dogs have room to play and socialize is a must. Puppies raised in a dirty, cramped space may have health and behavior issues down the road.
On the other hand, if the breeder welcomes you to see the puppies in a well-maintained, enriching environment, that’s a positive sign. It shows they have nothing to hide and are proud of the care they provide.
2. Have the puppies been socialized?
Proper socialization during the critical early weeks of a puppy’s life is vital for their future temperament and behavior. A breeder who understands this will make sure their puppies are exposed to various people, animals, and experiences positively.
You could ask the breeder, “What kind of socialization have the puppies had so far? Have they met different people and experienced new sights and sounds?”
A breeder who has put effort into socialization will be happy to share details. They may tell you about visitors the puppies have met, car rides they’ve taken, and different objects and surfaces they’ve encountered.
Limited socialization can lead to a fearful, anxious dog who struggles to cope with new situations. A puppy who has had positive early experiences will likely be more confident and adaptable.
If the breeder seems dismissive about socialization or says the puppies haven’t been exposed to anything new, proceed with caution. A lack of early socialization can create challenges that are difficult to overcome later in life.
3. What health screenings have the parents had?
Responsible breeders invest in health testing for their breeding dogs to minimize the risk of inherited diseases. The specific tests depend on the breed but may include hip and elbow x-rays, eye exams, heart evaluations, and DNA tests.
A good way to broach this topic is to say, “I know that (breed) can be prone to certain health issues. What health screenings have you done on the parents?”
A breeder who is committed to producing healthy puppies will be well-versed in the breed’s potential health problems and should provide you with proof of health certifications. These may come from organizations like the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) or the Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF).
Breeders who say their dogs are healthy but have no evidence to back it up may not be telling the whole truth. You could end up with a puppy who develops painful and expensive health problems.
Even with health-tested parents, there are no guarantees. However, a breeder who does appropriate screening is more likely to produce resilient, healthy puppies.
4. What is the puppy contract and health guarantee?
Reputable breeders use written contracts to outline their policies and expectations for both themselves and the buyer. They should also offer some type of health guarantee against severe hereditary defects.
It’s perfectly reasonable to say, “Before I make a decision, could you tell me about your contract and health guarantee? What does it cover and for how long?”
A good contract will require you to spay/neuter the puppy (unless it’s show/breeding quality), provide proper veterinary care, and return it to the breeder if you can no longer keep it. It will also specify what happens if the puppy develops certain genetic health issues.
Some breeders guarantee their puppies for a year or more against debilitating disorders. Others may require that you use specific feeds or supplements for the guarantee to be valid.
If the breeder doesn’t use a contract or health guarantee, that’s concerning. It suggests a lack of commitment to the puppies’ future well-being.
However, if the breeder is willing to provide a detailed contract that protects both parties and demonstrates a sincere desire to produce healthy pups, it’s a very good sign. It shows they plan to stand behind their puppies and offer support even after the sale.
5. What training and learning experiences have the puppies had?
The best breeders go beyond just providing a clean environment and basic health care. They also enrich their puppies’ early development with age-appropriate experiences designed to stimulate their learning and curiosity.
It’s great to ask a potential breeder, “In addition to socialization, what other experiences have you introduced the puppies to? Any special toys, games, or exposure to sights and sounds to encourage their development?”
Some breeders of hearing assistance or therapy dogs begin training their puppies from a very early age. They may play sound recordings, use brain-stimulating puzzle toys, and start basic clicker training to give their puppies a head start.
While not every breeder will go to those lengths, puppies that are offered interesting experiences and opportunities for engagement from an early age have a solid foundation for training and learning.
If the breeder seems confused by the question or says they don’t do anything special with the puppies, they may not be as attentive to their pups’ development needs.
But if they enthusiastically describe exposing the puppies to different tactile experiences, safe obstacles, puzzles, and maybe even some introductory training games, you can bet they are dedicated to producing well-rounded, confident pups.
6. Can I meet the mother (and father if possible)?
Meeting and observing the mother dog, and the father if he is on-site, gives you valuable insight into what your puppy may be like as an adult. Most puppies’ temperaments tend to fall somewhere between that of their parents.
Go ahead and ask the breeder, “Would it be okay for me to meet the mother and see how she interacts with you and her puppies? And is the father available to meet as well?”
While the father may not be on the premises, the mother certainly should be. Observe whether she is friendly and lets you handle her puppies without seeming anxious or aggressive. Notice the way she behaves around the breeder and if she appears to have a positive bond with them.
If the mother seems fearful, stressed, or uninterested in people, her puppies may be more likely to develop similar temperament problems. Puppies learn a lot about interacting with the world from their mother’s cues in the early weeks of life.
Also, be cautious if the breeder does not want you to see the mother with her puppies or seems uncertain about how she will react. This can be a sign of underlying behavior issues or a lack of proper socialization.
On the other hand, if the mother is content, friendly, and at ease in the presence of people, that’s a very promising sign. A mother dog with a stable temperament is more likely to raise well-adjusted, people-oriented puppies.
7. How do you match puppies with the right homes?
A conscientious breeder should be just as concerned as you are about making sure their puppies go to appropriate homes. They will want to know that you can provide the time, space, and resources the dog needs to thrive.
Try asking, “How do you determine which puppy is the best fit for each family? What factors do you consider to match the right dog to the right situation?”
Some breeders may have a questionnaire for you to fill out about your lifestyle, experience with dogs, and what you’re looking for in a canine companion. They should ask about your work schedule, family dynamic, activity level, and plans for training and exercise.
If the breeder seems willing to sell to anyone who walks in without asking questions, be wary. They may be more interested in making a quick sale than ensuring their puppies’ well-being.
But if the breeder engages you in a conversation about your needs and expectations, and takes time to discuss each puppy’s emerging personality to guide your choice, that’s fantastic. It demonstrates a commitment to placing puppies in homes where they will be set up for success.
8. Can I speak to your veterinarian and/or other references?
Speaking directly to the breeder’s veterinarian or to other people who have purchased puppies from them can give you added peace of mind and help verify the breeder’s reputation.
You might say, “I’m new to choosing a breeder and want to learn more about your program. Would you be willing to give me your vet’s contact information, and perhaps put me in touch with some of your previous puppy buyers?”
A breeder with nothing to hide will readily agree to have you contact their vet and other references. They may have a list of past clients who are happy to share their experiences.
If the breeder hesitates or says their vet can’t share information, there may be something amiss. A good vet will be able to confirm whether the breeder’s dogs are healthy and cared for without divulging private details.
Similarly, if the breeder claims all their puppy buyers are satisfied but won’t give you references, it might be a red flag. Happy puppy owners are usually thrilled to recommend a great breeder.
When a breeder encourages you to do your due diligence, it suggests they are confident in their dogs and business practices. Transparency is key.
9. How long have you been breeding this type of dog and what is your experience?
Breeding dogs responsibly requires a depth of knowledge and experience. It’s important to have a solid understanding of the breed, how to evaluate pedigrees, and how to select breeding stock for health and temperament. This expertise comes with time and hands-on practice.
Don’t hesitate to ask, “Can you tell me a bit about your background with this breed? How long have you been involved with them and what made you decide to become a breeder?”
An established breeder will often be an active participant in dog sports or events with their breed. They may have years of experience training, showing, or working with the dogs in the field. Some may have apprenticed under successful breeders or sought out mentorship.
If a breeder says they are new to the breed or have little experience, it doesn’t necessarily mean they are a bad breeder. But it’s worth discussing what steps they’ve taken to educate themselves and ensure they are making sound breeding choices.
On the flip side, a long-time breeder isn’t always a reputable one. Some may continue to breed their dogs despite health or behavior issues in the lines. That’s why it’s important to consider a breeder’s experience in combination with their practices.
A breeder who demonstrates genuine passion and knowledge of their chosen breed, and who can articulate why they selected particular dogs for breeding, is likely to be a conscientious one.
10. What are the feeding and care requirements of this breed?
As adorable as a puppy may be, it’s crucial to understand the needs of the dog they will grow into. Different breeds have different grooming needs, dietary requirements, and exercise demands. Some breeds have a steep learning curve as puppies and require a lot of patience and consistency.
Feel free to say, “I want to make sure I can meet this dog’s needs properly. Can you tell me about the specific feeding and care recommendations for this breed as they grow? Any special supplies or accommodations I should plan for?”
A knowledgeable breeder will be well-versed in their breed’s quirks and needs. They should provide you with a starter supply of the food the puppy is used to and give clear instructions on transitioning to an adult diet. They can advise you on proper grooming, including how frequently to bathe and brush the dog and whether professional services will be needed.
The breeder should give you an honest assessment of the breed’s activity needs and training challenges. If a breed is known for being headstrong or reactive, they should discuss this openly and help you decide if your household is a good fit.
If the breeder downplays potential challenges or doesn’t seem to have breed-specific knowledge and recommendations, they may not be adequately preparing you for life with your new dog.
A breeder who takes the time to educate you about the breed and provide a care roadmap is invested in their puppies’ long-term success and happiness. It shows they want you to be prepared to give your new dog the best possible life.
Wrapping Up: The Importance of Finding a Reputable Dog Breeder
Choosing to buy a puppy from a breeder is a decision that will impact your life for the next 10 to 15 years.
By asking the breeder these important questions up front, you can get a clearer picture of whether they are ethical, responsible, and committed to producing happy, healthy dogs.
Taking the time to find a great breeder is an investment in your future canine companion.
While it may require extra effort, your diligence will be rewarded with a well-bred puppy who can be a devoted friend for many years to come.