WHAT A REPUTABLE BREEDER WILL LOOK FOR IN A BUYER:

A responsible dog breeder is going to screen the buyer to ensure that the puppy they have worked so hard to breed and raise goes to a home that is going to love and care for the puppy as much as they would. They'll make sure that the buyer is aware of both the positive and negative attributes of their breed. To some, this screening process may seem intrusive, some will have you complete lengthy questionnaires. But when you are buying a puppy from a reputable breeder one is to a large degree becoming part of that breeder's extended family. Much like a godparent, the breeder will contact you from time to time as to how the puppy is progressing. And like a godparent, they will look forward to the buyer sending them pictures and keeping them appraised of the puppy’s progress. In other words when you buy a puppy from a responsible breeder you are as much buying a part of that breeder as you are a puppy. They come as a package deal.

But unlike a birth parent, when you purchase a dog you have the luxury of picking a breed that is right for you. There is much to be considered in choosing the right breed. A reputable breeder will be honest with you about the good and bad aspects of their breed. You need to be equally as honest, both with yourself and the breeder, as to your needs, expectations, and experience, as all of these will factor in the determination of not only what breed is right for you but choosing a puppy from within a litter.

Once you find a breeder with whom you are comfortable, you may have to wait months or longer for one of their puppies. Consider the time and money spent at this end an investment in your dog's future, because these are the people that are going to be as concerned about the puppy's future as you are.