Buying a Dog from a Breeder: best choosing and Avoid 7 Pitfalls

Why is Buying a Dog from a Breeder the Right Choice for You? How Can You Ensure a Successful Journey in Finding the Perfect Companion?

Discover the Secrets to Choosing Well, Avoiding Pitfalls, and Creating a Lifelong Bond. Dive into our comprehensive guide on Buying a Dos from a Breeder and unlock a world of expert advice, essential tips, and invaluable insights.

Don't miss out on this essential resource that will empower you to make the best decision and find a furry friend who will bring joy and love to your life.

What should I look for when buying a dog from a breeder?

When buying a dog from a breeder, it's crucial to consider a few key factors. Firstly, research the breeder's reputation and ensure they follow ethical breeding practices. Look for breeders who prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs.

Secondly, visit the breeder's facility or home to assess the living conditions and the overall environment in which the dogs are raised. Pay attention to cleanliness and the dogs' socialization. Thirdly, ask for health clearances and documentation of genetic testing for potential hereditary conditions.

Lastly, interact with the puppies and observe their behavior and temperament to find a compatible match for your lifestyle and preferences.

1. Reputable breeder: Check for positive reviews, recommendations, or affiliations with recognized kennel clubs.
2. Living conditions: Look for clean and spacious areas with proper ventilation, access to outdoor space, and opportunities for socialization.
3. Health clearances and genetic testing: Request proof of health clearances for both parents, including tests for common breed-specific health issues.
4. Temperament assessment: Observe the puppies' behavior, including their friendliness, energy levels, and compatibility with your lifestyle.

Additional considerations: Discuss any warranties or guarantees, inquire about the breeder's support and advice post-purchase, and ensure proper documentation and registration.

Buying a dog from a breeder

Buying a dog from a breeder is not something trivial. Both the animal and the structure in which it was born must be studied very closely for the transaction to be satisfactory for all parties, starting with the puppy itself.

Buying a dog from a breeder cannot be improvised. Adopting a dog itself is a choice that must be carefully considered. Addressing the right breeder is the other crucial step in the process.

Here are some tips to help you make the right decision when it comes to Buying a dog from a breeder.

Sale of puppies: what the law says?

Selling puppies is a legal activity. Indeed, the order of October 7, 2015, on the sale of dogs and cats has been applied since January 1, 2016.

According to this text, an individual intending to sell a puppy born at home is considered a breeder. As such, he is required to declare himself as such to the Chamber of Agriculture of his department.

He is also obliged to ask for a SIREN number (Computer System of the Directory of Companies), which he will have to communicate when he wishes to publish a sale advertisement.

This SIREN number is therefore the first of the guarantees available to the buyer when contacting the breeder. This ordinance, however, does not apply to individuals selling no more than one litter of dogs per year.

Buying a dog from a breeder: How to choose the right breeding?

To make the best possible choice when buying a dog from a breeder, there are several good and bad indicators to consider:

• - The breeder must allow you to see the parents of the puppy. If the parent is not his dog, he will at least show you pictures of him.
• - He will have to let you visit the puppy several times: when choosing the puppy you will reserve, then 1 or 2 more times until the young animal is old enough to be weaned (8 weeks minimum) and therefore to be delivered to you. The ideal would therefore be that the breeding is not excessively far from your home.
• - On your arrival at the breeding, the inventory will inform you about its quality. Facilities, space, toys available to dogs, and hygiene are important markers. If you see that the farm is overcrowded, it's a bad sign. It is difficult to have animals that are fulfilled and properly cared for in such a configuration.
• - The breeder must present you with all the documents relating to the origins of the puppy, as well as its health.

What are the pitfalls to avoid?

In selling puppies, as in any other business, excessively low prices should always inspire suspicion. Then, if the breeder refuses to show you the parents as mentioned above, it will be better to look elsewhere.

Ditto if he does not let you choose your puppy and spend enough time with him to observe his behavior. On the other hand, if the fact that you handle him at will and that you do the same with the other puppies does not bother him, this is not a positive indicator either.

Another trap: go to a non-specialized breeder. In other words, there is a multitude of breeds there, and, again, there is the risk of not dealing with a breeder who masters his subject.

A dog breeder who in turn asks you no questions is also to be avoided. Anyone running proper breeding cares about the well-being of their puppies, even (especially) after they've been sold.

If he inquires about your way of life (rather sporty or sedentary, space available at home, presence or not of other animals, children...) and your experience with dogs, it means that the future of the puppy that he is about to sell worries him much more than the financial aspect of his activity.

What questions to ask the breeder?

Ask as many questions as possible to the breeder to learn more about his breeding and the chosen puppy. Learn about the animal's behavior and take the time to observe it. Also ask him to describe the character of his parents, because he influences that of the puppy who tends to imitate them.

See if his dogs are registered and/or confirmed at the LOF. If you want to do the same with your future puppy, his parents must have been. Finally, find out about the care he gives to the dogs on the farm, the time he devotes to each of them, and if he plays with them and walks them enough.

How to find a reputable dog breeder near me?

Finding a reputable dog breeder near your location involves a few important steps.

Start by researching local breed clubs, kennel clubs, or breed-specific organizations, as they often have directories of responsible breeders.

Attend dog shows or events dedicated to specific breeds, where you can meet knowledgeable breeders and network with enthusiasts.

Additionally, reach out to veterinary clinics, trainers, or local pet communities for recommendations.

Conduct thorough background checks on potential breeders, verifying their reputation, adherence to breed standards, and commitment to the well-being of their dogs.

• - Local breed clubs and kennel clubs: Check their websites for breeder directories or contact them directly for recommendations.
• - Dog shows and events: Attend these gatherings to meet breeders, ask questions, and learn more about different breeds.
• - Networking: Seek referrals from trusted sources such as veterinarians, trainers, or local pet communities.
• - Reputation and adherence: Research the breeder's reputation, look for affiliations with reputable organizations, and ensure they follow breed standards.
• - Well-being commitment: Inquire about their breeding practices, socialization efforts, and how they prioritize the health and happiness of their dogs.

Are there any red flags to watch out for when buying a dog from a breeder?

Yes, several red flags should raise concerns when buying a dog from a breeder. Be cautious if a breeder exhibits any of the following signs:

Refusal to allow visits to their facility or home, lack of proper documentation, aggressive or fearful behavior of the dogs, excessive breeding of multiple breeds, unsanitary conditions, no genetic health testing, and reluctance to provide references or answer questions openly.

If a breeder pressures you to make a quick decision or has a high turnover rate of puppies, it may indicate questionable practices. Trust your instincts and always prioritize the well-being and ethical treatment of the dogs.

• - Restricted access: Responsible breeders should be transparent and allow potential buyers to visit their premises and meet the dogs.
• - Lack of documentation: Proper paperwork, health clearances, and registration papers are essential for reputable breeders.
• - Behavioral concerns: Pay attention to signs of fear, aggression, or poor socialization in the dogs, as these can indicate breeding or socialization issues.
• - Excessive breeding: Breeders focusing on multiple breeds may lack specialization and dedicated care for each breed.
• - Unsanitary conditions: A clean and hygienic environment is crucial for the health and well-being of the dogs.
• - Health testing: Reputable breeders prioritize genetic health testing to minimize the risk of hereditary conditions.
• - Reluctance to answer questions: Transparent breeders will gladly provide references, answer inquiries, and offer support throughout the process.

What are the advantages of buying a dog from a breeder versus adopting?

Buying a dog from a reputable breeder and adopting have their unique advantages. When purchasing from a breeder, you have the opportunity to choose a specific breed that aligns with your preferences, whether it's for appearance, temperament, or activity level. You can also gain insight into the puppy's lineage, health history, and potential behaviors. 

Additionally, reputable breeders often provide ongoing support, guidance, and resources to help you raise a healthy and well-adjusted dog. However, adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue organization gives a loving home to a deserving dog in need and offers the satisfaction of saving a life.

Breed selection: Buying from a breeder allows you to choose a specific breed that matches your lifestyle and preferences.

Lineage and health history: Breeders can provide information about the puppy's parents, lineage, and any potential health issues to watch out for.

Support and guidance: Reputable breeders often offer valuable support, advice, and resources to help you care for your new puppy.

Saving a life: Adoption provides a home for a dog in need giving them a second chance at a happy and loving life.

How much does it cost to buy a dog from a reputable breeder?

The cost of buying a dog from a reputable breeder can vary depending on factors such as the breed, lineage, location, and breeder's reputation Generally, purebred dogs from reputable breeders can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Breeds with high demand or rare characteristics tend to be more expensive.

It's important to remember that the initial purchase price is only one aspect of dog ownership. Additional costs, such as veterinary care, grooming, food, supplies, and training, should also be considered when budgeting for a new furry family member.