You may not want a “show dog”. You may not want a “hunting dog”. You may not want an “agility dog”.
You may be looking for just a pet, a loyal companion.
Nevertheless, choosing a reputable, responsible breeder is important. Why?
Responsible breeders thoughtfully evaluate the structural “soundness” of the dog, many times gaining the opinion of those in the show ring and/or other breeders. Other health screenings are done, as well, such as OFA hip certification and/or Penn Hip. Other testing includes elbows, eyes, heart, and thyroid. The findings are recorded on-line with the Orthopedic Foundation For Animals, and available for public review.
Responsible breeders also carefully review pedigrees, and evaluate temperament and natural ability. They will look for non-aggressive, yet confident dogs. Remember, they want to improve the breed, not just produce another puppy. They will limit the amount of litters, taking into consideration the age and condition of the dam.
Responsible breeders will carefully select a stud dog with the same, if not higher standards. Before breeding, both the sire and the dam will be tested for canine brucellosis, an STD, and if the results are positive, the dogs will not be bred. If an inheritable disease arises, the dog will not be used in the breeding program, and be spayed or neutered.
One may question, why is all of this so important? I don’t want a show dog. I just want a pet, to love, and be loved. It matters because we want our animals to walk, run, jump, hunt, herd, and strut for as long as possible, without discomfort and/or pain.
However, responsible breeding does not end with sound structure, nice temperament, and good ability.
Responsible breeders continue to care for the dam, and her entire litter until the puppies are at least eight weeks old. Neither the mother nor the puppies are confined to a cage. The puppies spend time together, moving freely while socializing, learning bite inhibition, rank in the pack . . . all in direct contact with their mother.
In addition, responsible breeders will screen prospective owners to try to ensure that the puppy is placed in a home that is prepared for the physical and emotional needs of the animal. Responsible breeders provide a purchase contract that includes breeder’s responsibilities, owner’s responsibilities, health guarantees, and return policy. They do not sell to pet stores or over the Internet.
And, responsible breeders are always prepared to take back ANY animal of their breeding, at ANY time and for ANY reason hence reducing the need for rescuing dogs, and reducing the amount of dogs in shelters.
Breeding a dog is a lifetime commitment of responsibility.
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