Want a specific breed - scared of breeders?

Question

we currently have a 2.5 y/o aussie shep (gobo) that we got at the local shelter when she was about 8weeks old. i have only ever had shelter dogs that i got as puppies. we are going to be moving to our new house soon and after we get all set and settled we really want to get a friend for gobo because we will have over a half acre (fenced) so we will finally have the room for a second (i'm used to having more than one dog so this would be nothing new for me).

well, i would like another aussie or border collie, my fiance really wants an australian cattle dog, so either way, we're probably going to have to go to a breeder to get either one since finding a litter of a specific breed is hit or miss. i want a puppy. i know, we should rescue an older dog but i cant help it, i'm a sucker for a puppy.

but after learning about all the byb's how do you know whats a GOOD breeder? how do you find out if they are legit? if we find another litter at the shelter we will totally take them from there (gobo is mixed, we dont care) and love them anyways :)

Answer 1

Check the breed directory and registeries.  A good breeder is on a show circuit, can show you vet papers, parents on premises, offer referrals and references, and breeds very limitedly, so you probably would have to put a deposit down and wait (sometimes close to a year) for a puppy.

BYBs advertise in the classifieds, frequently have puppies available, may breed several different breeds, cannot show you an established lineage and are not active with breed specific clubs and sanctioned shows.  

When making a decision on selecting a breeder, do research, and you can also expect to have to travel (or pay for shipping) if a reputable breeder is not close by.  And expect the breeder to ask you lots of questions - a good breeder is selective with who they sell their animals to, and may reject someone they feel is not a good fit.

As you are looking for a pet quality dog, let the breeder know this ahead of time.  Many good breeders are happy to find a good home for the puppies that are not show quality.  My best friend got a beautiful (but disqualified) cain corso pup from an outstanding breeder in Texas, who agreed to sell her the dog once she was spayed.  She's been so happy with the dog that she purchased another from the same breeder.

Do you research and check around, maybe even attend some shows.  And if this sounds like too much work, I do like your idea of getting another rescue - and there are lots of breed specific rescues for border collies.

Answer 2

I would still check out rescues.  I've transported a fair amount of puppies, some as young as 12-16 weeks for rescues.  Adult dogs are most frequently seen in rescues, true, but there are still a fair amount of puppies out there needing rescue.  I'd definitely check them out first.

Otherwise, here is some info on finding a breeder: http://members.tripod.com/marge_s_2/nonf...

And really, remember that that puppy is going to grow into an adult dog soon enough.  Why limit yourself just because you're a "sucker" for puppies.  I'm a sucker for them too, but I chose to adopt an adult dog anyway.

Answer 3

first check the BBB.

then go look at the pups. if there are a zillion dogs around, probably a puppy mill. if the breeder is concentrating on just one type, and does not have millions of dogs, probably a decent one.

when we got our shelty, they only had about a dozen adults, and only one litter available which they kept in the house. the dad was on the premises.

Answer 4

http://petfinder.com

You can type in what breed you are looking for, and it will have the shelters nearest you come up.

Answer 5

Contact   petfinder.com   They  help match pets  and persons and  can answer quetions for you.  

Answer 6

when you think about it where do the shelter dogs come from??? they all come from SOMEWHERE.

I saw a great article on your question just this morning and I was going to write up something for my blog on this as it was very good.

you can check with akc.org and there is information there about choosing pups too.

Basically the article mentioned that research shows that most of the pups characteristics are from the MALE dog so if possible meet and greet the parents... pass up any that have any any any aggression issue like growling (or shyness).

Ask lots of questions about the breed, its history, it character and temperment and other things.

Breeder shoudl be knowledge and willing ot support you afterwards with questions and infromation.

Good luck and don't be shy.. call several breeders adn go interview them.!!!!  :)

http://golden-joy.blogspot.com  

Answer 7

Make sure the breeder has done hip and eye testing on the parents before breeding! Most breeds require these, and some require more....

http://www.justdogbreeds.com/dog-breeds.... This site will have a list of genetic testing required on each breed- just click on the breed you are thinking of getting! It's easier than you think to find a responsible breeder.

Answer 8

Here is a link to a series of questions you can ask a breeder before purchasing a dog to help you decide if the person is a good breeder:

http://www.shalakoaussies.com/QuestionsB...

I know you said you don't want to go through rescue but they do sometimes have young dogs and puppies, so please also consider rescue through one of the many Aussie groups. They have wonderful dogs in dire need of permanent family homes.

Answer 9

I would def go with the a shelter dog or puppy, but if you do find a breeder always ask for referances from past dog owners.  Two you could find out who there vet is and always go and talk face to face with him.  You really have to check these breeders out.  Be very wary of them.  Go to the location, check it out see how the puppies, mama's and daddies are living.    

Answer 10

Contact the breed parent clubs.  They will have references for breeders.  Then contact the breeders.  Ask them whatever you need to know.  A good breeder will answer any question you have.  When you find a few that you feel comfortable with, then try to arrange a visit.  Also, ask for pics of the dogs.  There are good breeders out there.