Pet owners often visit our clinic asking advice on dog breeders or if we know any reputable dog breeders in the area.

This is the perfect starting for selecting a breeder – always ask your vet for tips on what you should be looking for in a dog breeder and which breeders have positive reputations.

The Centre Street Animal Hospital is committed to giving your family and your pet years of happiness together, and we are glad to help you make a decision that works for you.

By getting advice from your vet, you are off to a great start in choosing a dog breeder.

Things to Look For in a Dog Breeder

Here are some signs to watch for when visiting breeders.

Breed Knowledge – A solid breeder will demonstrate a superior knowledge about the breed’s history, its natural purpose, its health trends and its suitability as a family pet.

A Single Breed – A dog breeder who is breeding more than one breed is a bad sign. That’s a potential puppy mill, and in many cases, the person cares more about making money that they care about the

Pedigree – Whether a good breeder is showing you an individual puppy or an entire litter, they will also introduce you to the parents and discuss the mother and father’s pedigree, temperaments or health conditions. If they don’t offer, then you must ask.

Health Knowledge – Don’t let the breeder tell you everything is perfect. As a veterinarian, I can assure you that no breed or individual animal is perfect. Each comes with its own health risks, even if it’s just a potential risk. Make sure the breeder gives you a full explanation of the breed’s common health risks.

Health Guarantee – A dependable breeder should stand behind his or her dogs and offer you a guarantee of the animal’s health.

References – Like any reputable business, a decent breeder will be able to provide you with references.

Breeding – If you area household looking for a family pet, and a breeder encourages you to enter a breeding contract – meaning the animal will provide future litters for sale – walk away immediately. A good breeder will insist that you have the puppy spayed or neutered.

Other Questions to Ask

Be sure to look for the items mentioned above, and make yourself a list of questions to ask the breeder. Some example questions include:

  • How long has the breeder been working in this area?
  • What does the breeder do to socialize the puppies?
  • At what age should the puppies go their adopted homes?
  • Does the breeder have a relationship with a veterinarian?
  • Is the breeder active in any breed associations such as rescue groups or show clubs?

Questions Go Both Ways

We’ve discussed the questions you should ask the breeder. However, a good breeder will also have questions for you. A dependable dog breeder will take the time to assess whether you are an appropriate owner for one of his or her dogs.

  • Why do you want a puppy?
  • Do you have time to care for it?
  • Can you afford feeding and grooming costs?
  • Will the puppy live indoors or outdoors?

A good dog breeder knows the conditions under which the dogs will thrive, and they truly care about their animals and their future happiness.

Trust Your Instincts

You may not be familiar with animal care or dog breeding, but if you don’t feel comfortable with a breeder, then leave. You must be comfortable with the breeder, and a reputable breeder will understand that.

Ask Your Veterinarian

As I mentioned at the beginning, the Centre Street Animal Hospital is here to help you make a good decision about dog breeder and your family pet.

Feel free to contact us for advice or tips for selecting a dog breeder.