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The decision to get a dog is a big, exciting step in anyone’s life. But before you pull out your wallet, there are many things to consider. One of which is choose a reputable breeder where to find the right dog for you.
You need to do your research on the breed you want, know what to expect from dog breeders, and be ready to ask and answer questions.
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What to do before buying a puppy
Whether you already have a specific breed in mind or not, it’s every potential dog owner’s job to know the basics.
You can read some profiles to get an idea of the pros and cons of the breeds you are interested in. One of the factors you need to decide on is the estimated size: of the dog that will work for you.
It is striking how most people are in love with puppies, but once they grow up they are eventually given away, or left in shelters or pounds.
Another thing is the temperament or personality you prefer. While certain breeds are categorized as friendly or intelligent, that doesn’t mean others can’t have those good (and bad) traits.
Breeders who care for their dogs know what they are like in character and they can be passed on to their dog’s offspring. Furthermore, they will probably have seen how the puppies are within a few weeks. They can help you figure out which one is a barker, have a prey drive, or even show watchdog skills.
What did you think about sex? do you know the difference between having a male and a female? How many grooming are you doing okay? Is anyone in your family allergic to pets? tend to shed would be bad then.
Aside from researching what health issues are common in the breed you want, helping them stay in top shape means you can handle the dog’s task. exercise requirements.
if you join dog shows or competitions, trainability can be an essential factor for you. This means that you also need to be aware of breed standards.
Here’s a video of 5 things you need to know before getting a puppy.
Important questions to ask breeders when buying a puppy
It is understandable that responsible breeders will ask you with a Questionnaire for puppy buyersBut what should you ask before buying a puppy?
Reputable breeders should welcome all questions because it shows how much heart you have to get a dog.
Here are good questions that will come in handy once you talk to a breeder.
Ask to meet the puppy’s parents and siblings
By seeing what the mother and father look like, buyers can predict what temperament and conformation the puppy will have. Being able to visit the dogs will also give you the chance to to observe their overall condition.
Check the facilities to make sure the puppies are well handled and raised in a clean environment.
One of the warning signs is where the parents and litter seem scared or aggressive, but if the kennel or house is dirty and busy with dogs, that’s a no-no. We all know that with puppies it can be a challenge to keep everything clean all the time, but you can tell if they experience neglect.
If a breeder declines your visitation request, they must warn you unless they have a valid statement. A common reason is that the puppies are too young, and it is to protect their health.
Request for an overview of performed health tests and certificates
Some breeds are at risk for genetic disorders such as heart problems and hip dysplasia. As they are usually inherited, ensure that no diseases are passed on to the puppies by making sure the bitch and sire have been tested previously to breed.
Don’t be afraid to ask for certifications that they have been tested and certified as free of genetically transmitted health problems.
While you’re at it, ask about the breed line or family history and pedigree of the puppies.
The breeders’ experience
Don’t hesitate to ask the breeders how long they have been breeding and what their experience is with the specific breed they have. After all, they should be well informed of their dog’s genetic diseases, weaknesses, and strengths.
A good question to ask regarding a breeder’s experience is the cost of the puppies.
If their dogs have “show” potential, they will likely charge more for a puppy. Sometimes the sky is the limit on their prices when a puppy comes from an excellent bloodline!
But expensive doesn’t always mean a dog is of better quality than others. Be careful, because there are backyard breeders and puppy mills that offer puppies for a lower price, but none of your questions or checklist will pass.
Whatever your goal is to get a puppy, it’s best if they are well socialized.
Know if the puppies have been around other dogs, pets, and people. What are the puppies used to?
They could easily adjust to a new life with you if the puppy was socialized early with other puppies who differ in breed, size and age.
If you see the dogs in a kennel during your visit, ask how much interaction there is.
Ask for an overview of current vaccinations
Puppies should get their injections on time, be routinely dewormed and have regular vet visits.
Responsible breeders know the shots the puppies need. They should have a record of all the vaccinations they have received and when to get their next shot.
This is also the right time to ask if any of the puppies have ever been sick. If the breeder said yes, go ahead and ask yourself what the symptoms of illness were and what was the diagnosis and treatment for it.
Dogs can get sick, it’s unavoidable even for well-bred and cared-for dogs. So another essential question regarding this part is to ask their visit to their trusted vet. How often are they checked and are the puppies on prescription or currently on medication?
Having a contract that guarantees a healthy puppy
What kind of guarantee can the breeder give you when you buy a puppy? What steps should you take if the puppy suddenly becomes ill or you can no longer care for him? These are just some of the questions puppy buyers would like to see in a puppy contract before paying anything.
Clarify if the amount they ask for the puppy includes the breeder’s guarantee.
Some may offer discounts or refunds if the dog has developed a hereditary condition. To substantiate this, the breeder may include in the contract some recommended diets, certain health practices, or other instructions.
From what age can the puppy be taken home?
Puppies are can go home to their new owners by the time they 8 to 12 weeks old. They need time to drink from their mother so they can mature and socialize with siblings.
New owners can collect their puppy once their socialization period is over. It gives them the chance to adjust to their new home and environment.
Once they are 7 to 8 weeks old, their first behavioral anxiety period occurs and this is the right time to build resilience for many experiences.
Stay in touch with the breeder
Breeders usually provide their contact information when you pick up your puppy. They encourage those who buy puppies from them to reach out if they have any concerns or questions regarding the puppies.
Breeders know they have the buyer race mentor and source of information and support throughout the dog’s life.
To start this communication you can ask what the breeder is currently feeding the dogs to avoid a sudden change in their canine behavior eating pattern, which can cause gastrointestinal upset. And when you’re ready, you can ask if they belong to a breed club.
You can request references and your breeder can advise you on what to do to join their current association, dog club or sports such as the American Kennel Club.
What is the breeder looking for from puppy buyers?
Aside from answering their questions, show breeders how much you want that pup in your family. Ask if there is any other information or action needed to get a puppy.
They would like the little dogs to go to good homes that know what to expect from the fur balls.
Stay tuned with lots of research and questions
There’s nothing wrong with asking so many questions to make sure you bring home the best dog for you and your family.
Buying a puppy is best done by: meet the breeder in person to discuss everything about the dog. If that’s not possible, exchanging lots of emails or chat conversations or lengthy phone calls can work. The most important thing is that you questions answered.
With responsible breeding, proper socialization and proper care for the health of the dog will make a huge difference in the kind of dog your puppy will become.
Have any other questions to add to our list? Type them all in the comment box below!
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