Have you finally decided you want a Scottish terrier dog in your home? As a responsible person or parent you most probably have gathered enough information about the breed, have weighed the pros and cons and then made your decision. Now is the time to go out and get your Scottie. Wait! It's not that easy. Buying an animal with problems is a mistake you may regret later on.

To avoid this in the first place you should try to obtain your puppy from a registered Scottish terrier breeder. But before you do it drill him with questions that will give you the most information possible on the puppy's background and breeding history. Here are six essential questions you should ask a Scottish terrier breeder before buying a puppy:

1. Ask if he is a member of the Scottish Terrier Club of America, or similar Scottish Terrier Clubs if you live in other countries. Being a member of the Scottish Terrier Club of America (and to most Scottish terrier clubs) means a breeder has adhered to a strict code of ethics as regards breeding, protecting and preserving Scottish terriers.

2. Ask what health testing and vaccination has been done for the puppies. Two important health issues to ask about:

a) Von Willebrands disease: ask if they were tested for Von Villebrands disease and if he can show you the results. Von Villebrands disease is a hereditary bleeding disorder similar to hemophilia that affects Scottish terriers. There is a DNA-based test by VetGen.Inc that determines if a dog is affected or not. Serious, responsible breeders will avoid using affected animals for breeding.

b) Skin problems: some Scottish terriers are very allergic and it shows up in skin lesions. Also a poorly bred Scottie will have poor hair coat.

3. Ask if you will be able to register the puppy.

4. Ask if there is a guarantee, for how long and if you can have a written copy. Make sure the guarantee covers health related problems.

5. Ask the breeder for references. Get in touch with previous customers and find out if they are happy about the puppy they bought and the breeder's service.

6. Finally, if you decide to buy from this breeder, ask him what was the puppy diet's so far and what kind of problems may arise if you eventually change it.

A final recommendation: If the breeder seems annoyed by your questions or avoids answering them, move on to the next Scottish terrier breeder.