First Steps to Dog Ownership
Brandy Baker/The Oakland Press/Associated Press
If you have your eye on a specific breed of dog, and you've done the proper research to ensure that you can handle all its behavioral and physical tendencies — including shedding and exercise needs — your best bet would be to visit a breeder. Some people feel that dog breeders are a big part of the pet overpopulation problem, in that a breeder's overstock just ends up in shelters or pet stores. However, reputable breeders are very concerned with the welfare of their litters. They will try to find good homes for the puppies, and sometimes even raise unsold dogs themselves.
Caring breeders usually require that buyers sign an official contract. It helps to educate the new owner as to the puppy's needs, and it typically includes clauses that forbid further dog breeding without the breeder's permission; forbid the puppy's sale, abandonment or transfer of ownership; ensure the puppy's spaying or neutering; and offer a return or refund if the pup either develops a hereditary illness or disease within the first year, of if the new owner can no longer care for him. The American Kennel Club, your veterinarian or your local animal shelter can provide a list of reputable breeders.
Before you visit any breeder, it's a good idea to prepare yourself with a list of questions.
Questions to Ask a Breeder
- What breeds are prone to hip dysplasia? (Bernese mountain dog, German shepherd, golden retriever, Rottweiler or Saint Bernard)
- Are the puppy's parents certified by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals?
- How well did the puppy's parents score on the hip dysplasia evaluation of the PennHip (University of Pennsylvania hip improvement program)?
- Have the dogs been socialized with dogs, humans and the normal sounds and sights of home life? (A conscientious breeder will provide pups with good living conditions where they can interact.)
- If possible, arrange to meet the litter's parents — the breeder ideally should keep the mother or both parents with the litter until the puppies are past the weaning stage and are well-socialized. If the parents are not well-adjusted, their behavior and attitudes may have been imprinted on the impressionable puppies.
- Are the dogs' living conditions clean and well-maintained?
- Does the dog's temperament match what you're looking for? Overt aggressiveness or meekness are red flags.
You should expect an inspection yourself. Remember that upstanding breeders will have a discerning eye as well — the pups are more than products and profits to them — so be prepared to answer some questions about yourself and your intended commitment to your new family member. Breeders should be able to supply you with a good deal of information regarding the proper care and upbringing of your puppy.
Any reputable breeder will have official, documented proof of the puppies' immunization and pedigree records. Ask to see them. You'll also get a copy to bring home with the pup. Take the immunization record to your veterinarian so she can start a medical file right away.
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