How To Get The Most From Your Dog Breeder

Posted by Michael Brown on March 29, 2009 · Leave a Comment

One of the aspects of being a reputable dog breeder is to know what type of dog behavior to expect from puppies as they grow into adulthood.

Although it is easy to predict the future temperament of a litter by observing their parents, the right breeder has the knowledge and understanding of the breed that goes way back to it’s history. This knowledge and understanding gives the breeder a better insight of his/her dogs’ behavior and temperament. Breeders should be able to tell you why a dog behaves a certain way, its personality and what drives the dog to do certain things and act the way it does.

A good dog breeder can also tell you the puppy’s strengths and weaknesses, likes and dislikes and what changes to expect as it gets older (physically and mentally). Does it enjoy being around children? Does it get along with strangers and other animals? Is it needy or independent? What are its grooming and exercise needs? Is it a good watchdog? The right breeder should be able to answer these questions and more.

It is important for him/her to make sure that you, the potential buyer, are well equipped with the necessary tools and information to create the best home for the puppy. Furthermore, a responsible breeder will want to make sure that the puppy will be happy living in your home and that you all are the ideal family for it.

Arm Yourself With Breed Conformation Information

A breed conformation is defined as a specific way of describing a certain breed; the shape, size and structure that are common with the standard type of dog breed.

Before visiting a dog breeder, you should check the official breed standard of the breed you’re looking for. The official breed standard is posted on the AKC.org website. By checking the site, you will have the knowledge of what the puppy is supposed to look like, before you make the purchase. In addition, you won’t be fooled by a dishonest breeder into giving him more money for something that is allegedly a “rare” size, color, or look, but is actually a disqualifying fault.

An honest breeder conforms to the standard of the breed and will only sell puppies with disqualifying or severe faults for a lesser price (up to 50% off). He/she should let you know that these puppies are less expensive because they are considered as pet-quality dogs and not show-quality dogs.