Of concern to many puppy buyers today, is learning the difference between a reputable breeder, a so-called "back yard breeder" and a "puppy mill".
A puppy mill is just what it sounds like - the puppies are cranked out like logs in a mill, without regard to the health and care of the breeding stock or the pups produced. The conditions these animals live in are deplorable and extremely inhumane. To learn more of puppy mills, check out
NoPuppyMills.com
A "backyard breeder" is not a puppy mill, in that they rarely turn out large numbers of pups. However, they also aren't necessarily reputable breeders, in that they are often not knowledgable about their breed, or the health concerns specific to it. Most times they do truly love "Fluffy", which has prompted them to breed her, so that there will be more "Fluffys" for others to love - and maybe they can make a little spare change into the bargain. Often well intentioned, but sadly irresponsible.
The reputable breeder, on the other hand, is knowledgable about their breed. They know their breed's history of development, they understand the finer points of their breed standard (the "blueprint", that along with parentage records, makes a breed a purebred), and they have a "breeding program" designed to preserve these objectives, and the breed. And they are knowledgable about the overall genetic health of their breed, and are taking the necessary steps to try to breed genetically healthy pups.
You as a prospective buyer of a puppy, can educate yourself about the differences between these 3 kinds of "breeders" by reading and studying the materials available from local libraries, and book stores, as well as the many various sites here on the internet.
The American Kennel Club's website is a good place to start - you can visit them at
A.K.C.
... And while you are learning from these various sources, there is another way, a sort of "rule of thumb" that you can use, during your search for the breeder of that "perfect pup"! Read on...
The Basics...
Many of us in purebred dogs are concerned with the "puppy mill" problem. One good method for testing a breeder's intentions is to know whether they offer and honor health guarantees for their puppies and adults. A health guarantee, in general, addresses the overall health of the animal, as it states. Meaning that the puppy will be up to date on any required vaccinations (and often some that aren't required as well), such as puppy "6/7 ways", and rabies. The puppies will be wormed, and very possibly started on heartworm medication before going to their new homes. Adults will be current on their yearly boosters, and depending on the area of the country they are in, will probably be on heartworm preventative as well.
This "post natal" care, given by responsible breeders is one of the reasons that registered purebred animals are often rather expensive. But this initial expense is well worth it, as it insures that your new family member has gotten the very best start in life possible!
Some Breed Specifics...
Along with the basic health guarantee, many breeders will offer guarantees for health concerns specific to the breed/s they have. For instance, many large breeds (and some tiny toys) will be offered with guarantees against canine Hip Dysplasia. This is a condition in which the ball and socket of the hip degenerates over time, and use of the joint. It isn't quite understood if this is strictly a genetic disease, or if it's influenced by environment as well; most suspect it is a combination of both. However, the reputable breeder will guarantee replacement conditions for their puppies, should this condition occur. Many breeds are also guaranteed against elbow dysplasia, as well as specific genetic diseases such as von willebrands (in Dobermans) and copper toxicosis (in Bedlington terriers). And many toy breeders guarantee against a condition known as luxated patellers (slippage in the knee cap) which can be a problem for those breeds.
What You Can Do...
As a prospective buyer of a puppy or older dog, you can help yourself ahead of the "game", by speaking with veterinarians in your area, and studying the various sources available pertaining to the breed/s you've chosen. Learn about the breed, the purpose for which it was developed, and the genetic problems specific to it (if any - some breeds are fairly clear of any genetic health problems). Ask questions of the breeders you speak with, and make sure you understand what they're telling you. Learn the difference between a genetic problem (such as "collie eye anomaly") and a "normal" occurence (such as hook worms).
In the case of a genetic problem, understand that these diseases often don't manifest until the puppy has matured, so you will need to be clear with the breeder of your pup on just how this will be handled - some guarantees include return of the affected animal before a replacement will be made. And finally, realize that getting an affected animal from a breeder does NOT mean that this breeder is disreputable, or that all of their animals will be affected. Most of these genetic diseases are somewhat prevalent within the breed, and are difficult to eliminate completely. That your breeder offers health guarantees against these diseases means that they are aware of the potential and are taking steps to eliminate it within their breeding program, and their breed - which is the best a responsible breeder can do. Good luck with your new companion!
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