If you are thinking about getting a specific pure bred puppy, the best route is to go to a professional breeder. And if you want to make sure that the purebred puppy is in great health, has a sound temperament, and one that will match with your personality and lifestyle, then you need to find an honest and knowledgeable breeder, one that will help you find that perfect puppy.

The Importance Of Finding The Right Breeder
Nowadays, finding a reputable breeder is not as easy as it used to be. Many self-proclaimed breeders are nothing more than regular dog owners practicing “backyard breeding”. Many of these backyard breeders lack proper knowledge, history, and understanding of the breed, other than the one that they own.

Therefore, you need to do a thorough research and find a legitimate breeder, one who is also honest and well educated about specific dog breeds. A reputable breeder should be able to give you pertinent information about his puppies, as well as answer questions you may have regarding the breed, even after you have purchased the puppy. Most importantly, a reputable breeder should have genuine interest and love for his dogs.

One advantage of going to a breeder is that he has first-hand experience and knowledge of raising that specific dog breed. These are two important factors that he can pass down to you which will help you raise a healthy and happy dog. Reliable breeders are concerned about many aspects of their dogs, with health being number one.

Health
A reputable breeder’s top priority is to make sure that his puppies are free of genetic diseases that are common and dangerous to that specific breed. For instance, a breeder of Labrador retrievers should test their puppies for, at the least, diseases and disorders that are common with the breed, such as developmental diseases of the bone and joint, retinal dysplasia, and tricuspid dysplasia.

That breeder should all have an updated certificate for eye evaluation obtained from the Canine Eye Registration Foundation that ensures the puppy does not have genetic eye disease. The results of the eye evaluation should be registered at the Canine Health Information Center, where potential buyers and owners can go to and check the results.

1. How to Buy a Dog From a Breeder

The first thing to decide before buying a dog is what type and size you want. Many factors are important when buying, but be sure to consider what breed is suitable for you and your family. Remember also, that different breeds may have genetic health issues to watch out for…

Larger dog breeds can be susceptible to hip-dysplasia. This is a degenerative disease that affects the hip joint. When a dog with hip-dysplasia matures, the hip joint and socket loose their ability to bear the animal’s bodyweight. They will have a hard time running, walking or even standing. The only cure for this condition is surgery.

Smaller breeds of dogs can have genetic concerns of their own. Dogs that are in the “Toy” breed category, like the Pug, the Pekinese and the Lassa Apso are susceptible to breathing problems. These dogs have a short muzzle (or nose), which does not leave much room for sinus and nasal development. This is a condition that is often times not evident in early development.

So, what should you look for when buying a dog? INFORMATION is the key word! After you decide what type of dog you want, seek out people who already own this type of dog. Maybe somebody you know already owns one? Get the word out that you are looking to buy a dog. Talk to people and gather as much information about the breed as you can. If you go to a pet store, talk with people. Pet owners love to talk about their pets.

Research the internet about your dog breed and print out whatever information you can find. Buy books and read about the bread you are interested in. Know that it is extremely important to become an educated consumer BEFORE you buy your dog from a breeder.

Finally, when you talk with dog breeders, ask any questions that come to mind. Honest dog breeders will be more than happy to talk with you and answer every question. Note the condition of dog’s environment. Are the dogs pens clean? Are the puppies well cared for? Can you see the mother and father? What type of puppy food are they being feed? Have the puppies had their shots? Reputable breeders love their animals and go to great lengths to provide a proper “home like” environment. Puppies are products of their surroundings. A good, clean environment will surely be reflected in a dog’s playfulness.

Beware of breeders who are interested only in making money. They generally don’t pay much attention to their dog’s emotional needs and health concerns. Also, they may in-breed their dogs and this can trigger severe health issues. AVOID THESE BREEDERS!

Some breeders may offer a 72 hour guarantee. This allows time to take your puppy to a vet for inspection. If any health issues are identified, contact the breeder and get your questions answered.

Good, honest breeders care for their dogs and it shows in their surroundings. There are no guarantees that you will always have a normal, perfect puppy, but you greatly increase the odds when you do your homework first!

1. Dog Breeders – Finding A Professional Breeder That Puts Health First