How do you know when you are dealing with a
Reputable Breeder?
A reputable breeder doesn't make money off breeding their dogs, and the money they do make should be invested back into their dogs care and well-being.
A reputable breeder breeds for the LOVE of their breed(s) and to better them.
When they talk about their dogs, PRIDE, LOVE and KNOWLEDGE should be apparent.
To a reputable breeder, their puppies are NOT a commodity, they are living, breathing creatures that deserve the best home and life they can provide. Even if that means turning a prospective home down if they are not confident in them.
Breeding is very expensive, time consuming and heart breaking if done correctly.
A reputable breeder researches breedings, does health screenings on all breeding dogs and if you are lucky, is competitive in some type of competion (conformation, agility, obedience, service or therapy work.)
A reputable breeder is very involved in every aspect of the puppies life from the day of his birth, until he goes to his new home and the rest of his life, with breeder support.
They should always take a puppy back, anytime in their life, if the owner can not keep them, to avoid that puppy ending up in a shelter.
The (Estimated) Costs Of Breeding Correctly
Cost of the dam~buying a puppy $3000-$10,000
Show bitch to her championship title $10,000-$25,000
All OFA certification $1200
Full DNA testing-EIC, DNM, CM, PRA, HNPK, D-Locus $250
Brucellosis test $90
Progesterone tests $90-$450
Stud fee $2000-$5000
Ultrasound $100
Pregnancy x-ray $90
Whelping supplies $500-up
Vaccinations $40 per puppy
Wormings $20 per puppy
Microchips $25 per puppy
AKC litter registration $35-up
Advertising $100-up
Cost of food after 4 weeks of age $50 per bag x-8 weeks
Yearly club & membership dues $200-up
If c-section is needed $1800-$6500
All the time, care, attention and LOVE given...PRICELESS
This is just an overview of general costs, not adding in any unseen costs like a sick puppy, moms that won't take care/nurse puppies/develop milk.
Backyard Breeder (BYB)
1. Motive for breeding- "Fun" "good for the kids to experience", to make money.
2. Breeds the family pet to any dog of same breed. Has no understanding or concern with genetics, pedigree or bloodline.
3. Though the pet (sire or dam) may be loved, they do not have health clearances done on the dogs they breed.
4. Puppies raised in makeshift accommodations, sometimes outdoors, unsanitary conditions. Indicates lack of long-term investment in breeding and lack of care for the well-being of puppies.
5. Puppies are priced at the low end of most other breeders prices, this is so they can move puppies quickly.
6. Are not concerned about puppies future. Does not sell puppy with limited AKC registration and doesn't sell on a spay/neuter contract. If you cannot keep the puppy, they won't take them back, tells you to take it to a shelter or pound or won't return your calls.
Reputable Breeder
1. Dedicated to producing quality dogs and bettering the breed. Has so much invested in dogs/puppies, struggles to break even.
2. Can explain how breeding's are planned and researched to minimize and maximize certain traits and qualities.
3. Has all breeding dogs OFA/DNA certified.
4. Has invested lots into accommodations and equipment for dogs comfort and well-being. Puppies are raised in a home with sanitary, warm, safe and loving environment.
5. Puppies are priced at the high end of most breeders prices. A reputable breeder doesn't profit from sale of puppies. Has an established waiting list and lots of referrals.
6. After purchasing a puppy, will advise you with grooming and training issues. Sells puppies on spay/neuter contract with Limited AKC registration. Will take the puppy/dog back if you cannot keep them. Offers life time breeder support and care.