The Best Dog Breeder

How to Find the Best Dog Breeder?

Group portrait of adorable puppies 

Once you’ve decided on a particular breed of dog, it’s important to find a good breeder. During your dog research, you will have discovered much knowledge about the breed you are looking to buy. Use this knowledge to measure your breeder on their level of awareness and expertise.

For example, if you would like a bulldog you should know there is a big difference between English bulldogs and French bulldogs. English bulldogs are medium in size, short and stocky. Usually very flat in the face, they are strong-looking dogs but compact, weighing anywhere between 40 – 70 lbs.

The French bulldog is essentially the smaller cousin of the English bulldog. They are usually between 18 – 28 lbs. They are often mistaken for a pug because of their smaller size, or confused with Boston Terriers who often have the same markings. They come in many different colors.

There is also the American bulldog which is much taller and larger than the other breeds of a bulldog. They are usually predominantly white, with some patches. They can weigh between 70 – 125 pounds and can resemble the pit bull breed of dog.

Knowing exactly which specific breed you want is crucial, as there can be many variations or mixed breeds. If you want a purebred AKC registered dog, it’s even more important to know the facts. For example, bulldogs come in a variety of colors, but purebreds will not have a red nose.

Breeders of dogs need to be reputable and preferably come with references and recommendations. It is important to thoroughly research each breeder you consider. And do consider more than one to contrast and compare what they do. Bad breeders exist and it’s important to know how to recognize one.

How do you recognize the bad breeders of dogs? Apart from the obvious lack of care for the dogs or messy conditions, you should test their knowledge of the breed to ensure they are genuine. Another sign is if they don’t let you see where the puppies were raised, observe the litter, or meet the mother.

Don’t choose a breeder just because they offer a lower price. Especially in this case you need to check if they do proper health tests on the dogs. Health problems in dogs can cost thousands of dollars. It’s important to be aware of the possible health complications before you commit to buy a dog.

If a ‘purebred’ breeder is AKC registered, they should be able to supply you with the appropriate paperwork. Registration papers should be available, as well as papers backing up health claims, and a sales contract. All of these will ensure you have recourse should you have any problems with the puppy.

Selecting a breeder that has a sincere love of your chosen breed is a wise move. These people have genuine interest vested in the dogs because it is their passion. This will be obvious when you visit the breeder and see how they interact with the dogs, and how the dogs respond to them.

Which Dog Breed is Right for You?

Once you have made the decision to get a dog, you should consider which breed would suit you and your lifestyle best. Each breed of dog is different in temperament, energy levels, and personality. Some dogs are better suited to families, and some thrive better in large outdoor spaces.

Dogs vary considerably in size and weight. If you are an elderly person looking for a companion, a large, heavy dog such as a German Shepherd or Labrador may not be suitable. A smaller breed such as Terrier, Jack Russell, or Bulldog might be more appropriate.

You also have to consider the personality and energy level of the dog. Once again, if you are elderly and unable to walk a dog three times a day, then perhaps a less energetic breed such as Maltese or Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Bulldogs will also be happy not running fast, but do need exercise.

However, if you’re an avid runner who likes to run with your dog, then you have a lot of choice. Dogs love to run and be outside, so the more you can do this the better. A Border Collie, Brittany, or Labrador will love to run alongside you, and probably challenge you to run even faster.

Affection is another important trait to consider. Some dogs are extremely affectionate which some people love and others find annoying. If you want a dog to never leave your side then a Border Terrier or Pug is a good choice. Miniature Schnauzers also make very loyal dogs.

The level of trainability is a very important factor as well. If you have experience owning a dog before and feel confident training it then you have a wider scope of choice. Some dogs are harder to train then others. Once you’ve narrowed your breed down to a few, it’s easier to discern this.

Do you want a protective dog? If you are living alone this could be an added advantage. But there is a difference between being protective and aggressive. If you want a family guard dog then you don’t want an aggressive dog. In this case, the Akita or Collie is a very good choice for families.

If you want a low-maintenance dog that does not require much grooming, it’s important to be aware of which breeds fit this box. Bulldogs have a short-haired coat that is fine and glossy, but you will find Golden Retrievers long hairs absolutely everywhere.

There are many websites that can help you find the best breed when you are looking for a dog or puppy. They ask you questions about your lifestyle and provide you with the perfect match, depending on your priorities. The next step is finding a reputable breeder of your chosen dog.

And finally, make sure you are prepared and ready for when you bring your puppy home. It is a big transition for them that they may find stressful. Try to change his life as little as possible the first few weeks and ease him into a routine gradually. And always show him lots of love.