If you are interested in getting a new pet, such as a puppy, it is important to find a good dog breeder. This will help ensure that your new pet is happy and healthy, which is important as they are expected to live for several years. Before checking out breeders near you, learn the signs to look for in a reputable one.
One of the most important traits of a good dog breeder is that they are very knowledgeable about the breed of animal they work with. They should be able to tell you the benefits and drawbacks of the dogs in question, as each type has its own health issues or negative traits. Because so much information is required about each breed, the person you are considering buying a new pet for should only breed a few types of dogs. Someone who has several may not know everything there is to know about each one unless they have a lot of help, such as many employees or family members who seem to be knowledgeable.
You should also consider where the dogs are kept. If they are always outside, away from the house or building, be careful as the best breeders usually keep them inside so they can always be watched. Dogs should also appear happy to see visitors rather than scared or shy, and they should also not appear dirty or sick. You want a puppy that has been happy and well cared for throughout his life, not one that you will have to spend thousands of dollars on due to past abuse or neglect.
It’s also worth noting that the typical experienced dog breeder should have a good relationship with at least one nearby veterinarian. This is because healthy dogs should get their shots early on and be seen by a professional should they get sick. It is helpful when breeders can provide you with a reference from a nearby vet that the dog has already seen, as well as any documentation, such as proof of his vaccinations or any illnesses he has had in the past.
Clearly, there are plenty of irresponsible breeders out there, which can make finding a happy, healthy pet difficult unless you do your research first. These are just some of the ways to find a trustworthy person to buy a puppy from. You should also keep your intuition in mind when looking for breeders as some make it clear that they are not well informed and are only in it for the money.