How to choose your dog breeder

Assuming you know which breed of dog you want to get, ask around for recommendations of dog breeders in your area. Your vet may be able to help you or you can contact the Kennel Club for a list of Kennel Club Accredited Breeders.

Reputable dog breeders generally only breed one type of dog and are passionate and knowledgeable about the breed. So be wary of adverts in the local paper where a dog breeder is selling several different breeds of dog. These types of dog breeders are generally only in it for the money. They may not care for their dogs properly and the puppies may be in poor health and prone to genetic disorders connected with that particular breed.

Before going to visit a dog breeder, call them and ask them detailed questions about the breed. He or she should know the breed inside out and be knowledgeable about any common genetic diseases. Breeders should also be members of a national or local breed club.

Most dog breeders will be happy to put you in touch with previous clients. Or they may suggest you speak to their breed club who can assure you that the dog breeder in question has good breeding ethics and produces healthy puppies.

A reputable dog breeder should give you the opportunity to see the puppy with its mother and the rest of the litter. This should give you an idea of the temperament of the mother and the eventual size of your chosen puppy puppy.

Never buy from a dog breeder that doesn't allow you to visit the kennels—the chances are the conditions are poor and the dogs unhealthy.

Find out from the dog breeder if the puppies have been checked by a vet and whether they have had their first vaccination. Take a good look at the puppies to see whether they appear healthy and happy.

Ask if the dog breeder gives health guarantees. A reputable breeder should be able to guarantee that their puppies are from stock that is free from the genetic diseases of that breed. He or she should be able to tell you that all his dogs are screened for congenital disorders like hip dysplasia.

A dog breeder should always be willing to accept the return of a sick or unsuitable puppy. No reputable dog breeder wants a puppy to suffer and should always have the puppy's interest at heart.