Choosing a puppy is a monumental decision, marking the beginning of a decade-long commitment. While it's easy to get lost in the allure of those adorable puppy eyes, it's paramount to ensure you're making the right choice for both you and the dog.
One way to ascertain this is by asking your potential breeder the right questions.
Here are 20 essential queries to guide you:
1. What were the parents and grandparents bred to do?
If you are looking for a dog that will fit seamlessly into your family, having parents who were bred for their looks and great personalities would be the best option. If you hear that your puppies parents competed in high level sports like Agility or Protection Work, or if their parents herded sheep or retrieved birds with hunters, they will likely be working line and will be higher energy and more highly driven. Depending on the dog, this can pose a major challenge to family living and could cause significant difficulty as the dog gets older.
2. What breeds do you specialise in?
A breeder specialising in a particular breed is likely more knowledgeable about its specific needs and traits and how these might fit into your family.
3. Can I meet the puppy's parents?
Seeing the parents can give you an idea about the temperament, size, and health your puppy might have as an adult. Watch out for parents showing anxiety, fear or aggression, as many times the puppies will pick this up too.
4. What health screenings do you perform?
Reputable breeders will screen for breed-specific genetic conditions and ensure that breeding adults are healthy. If they haven't done any health testing, it is probably a good idea to look for a different breeder.
5. Do you have a return policy?
Understanding the breeder's policy if things don't work out is essential. This also indicates a breeder's commitment to the welfare of their puppies.
6. How do you socialise your puppies?
Early socialisation is crucial. Puppies should be exposed to various sounds, sights, and experiences as young as a few days old, so as to become balanced, well-adjusted adults. Early experiences, like exposure to different surfaces, toys, and human interactions, can shape a puppy's development.
7. What is the puppy's diet?
Knowing what the puppy has been eating will help you either continue their diet or gradually transition to another. Changing the Puppy's diet too quickly can cause upset tummies.
8. Can you provide references?
Speaking to other families who've adopted from the breeder can provide insights into their experiences and the breeder's reputation.
9. At what age do you let your puppies go to their new homes?
Puppies should typically be with their mother until a minimum of 8 weeks of age. This allows the puppy to wean effectively, as well as allowing the puppy to learn a certain degree of bit inhibition (how hard they are allowed to bite) from their siblings and mom.
10. How many litters do you breed a year?
Frequent litters might indicate a profit-driven breeder rather than one focused on the dogs' welfare.
11. Are the puppies kennel club registered and will they come with papers?
In the UK, being registered with The Kennel Club can provide some assurance of the puppy's pedigree.
12. Do you offer a health guarantee?
This shows a breeder's confidence in the health of their puppies.
13. Are the puppies vaccinated and dewormed?
Your puppy should come with a health card showing their medical history. Most puppies will have their first vaccinations at the very least, by the time that you pick them up.
14. What is your process for choosing suitable homes for your puppies?
A good breeder will be as invested in finding the right home as you are in finding the right puppy.
15. Can I see where the puppies were born and raised?
Visiting their breeding facility allows you to see the environment the puppy has been raised in. This allows you to ensure that your puppy is not coming from a puppy farmer and allows you to see what experiences the puppy may have been exposed to. If you are looking for a family dog, for example, puppies raised in a house with children would be a great thing to look for.
16. How do you handle potential health issues in your breeding dogs?
Understanding this can shed light on the breeder's ethics and dedication to breed health.
17. What, if any, training or preparation do you provide to your puppies before rehoming?
Some breeders might begin potty training or basic command training.
18. Do you have a spay/neuter contract or policy?
Some breeders require new owners to spay or neuter their dogs to prevent unplanned breeding.
19. How long have you been breeding dogs?
Experience often equates to expertise. Understanding the breeder's history can provide insights into their knowledge and commitment.
20. What post-adoption support does the breeder offer?
A dedicated breeder will be available for questions or concerns even after you've taken your puppy home.
In Conclusion
Arming yourself with the right questions not only ensures you choose the right puppy for your family but also ensures that you find an ethical and responsible breeder who will provide you with a top notch puppy. A reputable breeder will appreciate your thoroughness and dedication to offering a loving, forever home.
Remember, your new furry friend is not just a pet but a long-term family member. Making an informed choice paves the way for years of joy and companionship.
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