Sera_J
Posted : 11/26/2007 5:48:55 PM
Breeders, I try to verify that they are a 'reputable breeder' rather than a back yard breeder or puppymill breeder, first and foremost. The main way to tell is if they interview you. A reputable breeder will have at least as many questions for you as you do for them. ... if not more! BYB and puppymills will just have you come and take a puppy home, period. Pick one, pay and go. Rep breeders will have a contract, require a right of first refusal (and all the stuff MRV mentions). I make sure that they do specific testing on the parents. Know the breed and verify they test the parents for common problems in the breed, such as hip dysplasia and eye disease (to name a few).
They will verify you are a good home, maybe even come and check your home out. They will probably have titles on the sire and dam. ... and they DON'T HAVE to have both parents on site, in fact they usually will only have the mother.
Be really familiar with the breed you are looking into, and go to the breed club in your area, and they should have a link to reputable breeders.
Good luck!! :)