Choosing the right breeder

[Golden Beauties Driven 2 Doodles]

 Reputable Breeder qualities:  I truly see a difference in professionalism and dog personalities when the breeder is dedicated to their dogs and puppies, meaning they are with them a lot!, They have them preferably in their home.

-Breeder has dogs in home or a kennel that is sanitary, clean, inspected by local/state government etc... - Breeder has experience with dogs/animals for a long time, either with behavior, obedience, showing, horse racing & breeding, etc. Be sure breeder is an animal (at least dog) lover, this ensures that they give their all to their dogs. - Licensed and Inspected by local/state authorities, this ensures that the breeder is frequently checked and that any activity they do regarding the sales/breeding of dogs is regulated, this is a good thing because many breeders will have unsanitary conditions, this ensures the upkeep and health of the dogs, also usually the law of the state will protect the buyer in this case as well! -Breeder should be a member of a few organizations such as Kennel clubs, training organizations, etc. this shows they are dedicated to the breed and further educating themselves as breeders*. -Make sure breeder has a contract, this means they really care about the puppy and want to be sure you will follow a few simple rules such as getting puppy fixed at 5-6 months, etc... - when in doubt ask for references, these should be from previous puppy owners and/or other breeders.

*For Goldendoodles GANA and Premium Breeders list

Step3 Call/e-mail breeder you have found. Ask the following if it is not clearly stated on the website: 1. when do you let the puppies go to their ? 2. what kind of health guarantee is there? 3. what testing (genetic, hip, eye) has been done to the adults? 4. what temperament are the breeding pair?**** 5. will you send photos of the pups development? 6. will you deliver/can I pick up puppy? 7. do you choose the dog based on my criteria/family style? ***please note temperament is not a general thing that just every dog should have the same temperament. Every dog is going to have a different temperament, but do know that if you are seeking a more "aggressive" breed be aware that temperament can play a critical part in your dog getting along with your family!!! However if you are choosing a dog like a Golden Retriever, a Goldendoodle, a Bishon, a spaniel, a Lab, etc temperament will most likely be sweet but it can also be active.

 ok.. now that you have asked here are the answers you should get: 1. when do you let the puppies go to their new homes? Answer: 8 or more weeks.. never before 8 weeks should a puppy leave the breeder!

 

2. what kind of health guarantee is there? Answer: there should be at least a 2 year health guarantee.

3. what testing (genetic, hip, eye) has been done to the adults? Answer: for most breeds Hip testing should be done, many breeds should also be tested for Von Willebrands, and an eye test should be done as well. I prefer to buy dogs from Breeders who have conducted Penn HIP hip testing, CERF eye testing and PRA eye testing, OFA usually is done with the Penn HIP. These tests rule out genetic disorders. I also like to see a DNA profile on the dog as well.

 

4. what temperament are the breeding pair?**** Answer: this will depend on your family but if you are a laid back family you do not want an active dog, if you are an active family an active dog is good... 5. will you send photos of the pups development? Answer: if you found the breeder on the web yes they should definitely send photos of the pups as they grow!!! 6. will you deliver/can I pick up puppy? Answer: they should leave this up to you, they should offer delivery, there is usually a minimal charge but they should not ship dogs alone on plane etc. Dogs should be delivered by a qualified person who can care for the dog during the ride.. Many breeders are now being very cautious as to who comes into their home for reasons of the possibility of diseases entering the breeding area, this is understandable and should be accepted by the new owner. I allow new owners in after pups are 6 weeks and I will show a pup or two at a time while the person is at my home.

Step5 Continued: 7. do you choose the dog based on my criteria/family style? Answer: Breeder chooses dog based on family and the criteria the family has given to breeder. This helps make sure you receive the dog that best fits your family! ultimately breeder and family choose together but it is essential that the breeder has a say in the choice of dog for your family, after all the breeder knows the puppies best and can determine their temperaments best so that you end up with the right dog!
Step6 Now that you have asked, be sure your breeder is going to give you a list of recommended products for your dog. And be sure to ask for training advice as well!



Tips & Warnings
Don't settle on a dog too quick, it is ok to wait a few months, many breeders will put you on a wait list for the next litter, this is ok... This is a big decision and good things come to those who wait!
Make sure you get your dog when the time is right, try not to plan a vacation for the few weeks to months after you get your puppy, puppies take time and energy, and I know you want to be there for the growth and development. Plus it is essential for bonding!!!
Don't buy someone a puppy for Christmas unless they are expecting it!
Getting a puppy for a child is great but know this- your son/daughter may not be ready for the responsibility, as long as you are then having this puppy will be a pleasure, if not it will be a disaster!