Responsible breeders prioritize health, temperament, standards over profit.
10 steps across 1 sections
1. Steps Guide
- Research breed — Health issues, temperament, care
- Find breeders — AKC, breed clubs, vet referrals
- Health clearances — OFA or CHIC
- Visit facility — Welcomed visits
- Meet parents — At least mother
- Evaluate facility — Clean, spacious, healthy
- Socialization — Household sounds, handling
- Contract — Health guarantee, return policy
- Breeding frequency — Over 1-2 litters/year is red flag
- References — Previous buyers
Common Mistakes
- Vet checked not health testing
- Buying without meeting
- Rare color pricing
- Not verifying OFA/CHIC
- Impulse buying
Pro Tips
- No questions = red flag
- AKC alone not enough
- Waiting lists normal
- Never pet store or sight-unseen
- Consistent pricing