If you’ve decided to add a dog to your family, there are many different ways you can go about getting one.  You can go to a shelter, you can adopt the puppy of a friend’s dog or you can go to a breeder, for example.  If you go the breeder route, you’ll want to be sure you are purchasing your dog from reputable source, one who cares as much about the welfare of the dog as you do.  But what should you look for in breeder?  There are a few important questions you should ask.

Have the puppies been socialized?

This is very important.  If the puppies haven’t been exposed to contact with humans or been held and cuddled by the age of about four months, there’s a good chance they will develop a lifelong fear of humans.  They will struggle to adapt to new situations such as moving in with a new family, encountering other dogs and small children, riding in cars, etc.  A socialized puppy will be much easier to integrate into your family.

A good breeder such as Ulvilden German Shepherds will understand why early socialization is so important and they will make it a priority to do so.  More than that, he will be able to give you tips on how to continue the socialization process once you bring your puppy home.

Have they had a veterinary checkup?

Never buy a puppy that has not been vaccinated – and always ask for proof.  Buying an unvaccinated pup can cause you a host of problems.  Be wary of a breeder who is hesitant to show you proof of vaccination.

Can I see some references?

Always ask a breeder for references from past customers and always follow up with the references from other MacDowall customers.  Hesitation to provide you with references should always raise a red flag.

Do you specialize in one kind of breed?

If you are looking for a particular breed, it might be a good idea to go to a breeder who specializes in that particular breed.  That likely means that they are very knowledgeable about that breed, not only in the care and raising of them but in how to breed that type of dog to bring out its best qualities.

Do you sell your puppies to pet stores?

Always ask whether the breeder sells his puppies to pet stores.  A reputable breeder won’t, because they don’t have control over where the puppies end up.  A good breeder cares too much about the puppies to let them be sold to goodness-knows-who.  Avoid breeders who sell puppies to pet stores.

In addition to asking these questions, there are a few things you should take stock of when you consider buying a puppy from a breeder.  Are the conditions in which the puppies are kept clean?  Are the puppies themselves well-kept and active?  Are you allowed to see the mother and father of the litter?  All of these things should also go into your decision whether or not to choose a particular breeder.