Do you want to buy your dog from a breeder, but are afraid of supporting back yard breeders and puppy mills? You still have an option.

Reputable breeders are those people who strive to better their dogs breed. They breed for sound temperament, great health, and a dog that is able to do what they were built for. Look for those whos dogs have titles, great temperaments, and health screens. Learn about your breed of choice’s inhereted diseases and see to it that you buy a dog who’s parents have been cleared of these diseases. Keep in mind that any large dog that is bred should be OFA certified.

Look for a breeder that seems concerned for their dogs well being. They should be interrogating you with questions and be full of information about their breed. They should require you to have filled out an application before considering you as a potential buyer, and should have you ready to get your dog before they have even bred their bitch.

They should also have the pups parents available for you to meet and be willing to let you get to know their dogs first hand. Be wary of those who offer to have your dog shipped, as you should also get a look at where their dogs are kept and where the pups will be raised so that you can see for yourself that you are not supporting a puppy mill. Also be wary of breeders who have litters from more than one breed of dog.

The parents should be bred only when they are old enough to handle parenting. Look for dogs that are only bred every once in a great while: there should be many years between litters.

Also look for a breeder who suggests that you adopt from a breed rescue or shelter. They should have the knowledge to seek out rescues for you if they do not rescue themselves. Remember, reputable breeders are those individuals who have a deep devotion to their breed of choice, they will be willing and happy to inform you on any aspect of the pup you are about to welcome into your family and will want to provide their dogs with only the best homes available.