Breeder Tribute

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Certain breeders who are unscrupulous will produce dogs without concern for improvement, health or welfare, and their only motivation is profit. You may get a dog from someone like this at a slightly lower price, but you may also live to regret this decision later if the dog demonstrates temperament or health issues.

A reputable breeder's goal is to produce dogs which conform to the FCI standard, and which can compete and win at conformation dog shows. Even our breed are sometimes bred by unscrupulous puppy millers, so do seek out a reputable breeder.

A reputable breeder is concerned with quality, not quantity or profits. A reputable breeder belongs to breed clubs, and participates actively. He is concerned with the improvement of the breed. He raises his puppies in his home, with plenty of love and socialization. He health tests his breeding stock. He shows his dogs to get objective opinions on their quality. He is well-connected with other breeders so that they can achieve their mutual goals. But, most importantly, he loves his dogs and wants only the best homes for them.

Here are some warning signs to watch for when you are selecting a breeder:

Your breeder might be unethical if...

They breed dozens of puppies each year.

They show pictures of only puppies in their ads or on their websites.

They brag about ridiculously high numbers of dogs they have titled (for every show dog there are several others produced).

They deny the breed has any genetic health issues.

They deny knowing the breed has any genetic health issues.

They deny producing any dogs with genetic health problems.

They say they can "tell" by looking at a dog whether it has genetic diseases.

They do NO genetic testing, and make excuses for why they don't.

They blame any genetic diseases they produce in litter after litter on the buyer's supposed poor care of the dog.

They don't return your calls once your check has cleared the bank.

They refuse to take a dog of their breeding back when the original owner can no longer keep the dog.

They advertise in every dog publication known to mankind.

They breed unrecognized colors deliberately.

They make up names for incorrect sizes, coats and colors, as if that makes it legitimate.

They are not recommended by other breeders in the breed or parent club.

They tell you what you want to hear, so you will buy their dog.

Their dogs are not allowed in the house, unless it is a mom with a new litter.

They have several different breeds in their kennel and some even sell mixed breed litters.

Always ask the breeder for references, and check them out. Anyone who breeds large numbers of dogs is most likely simply interested in profit. Every breed has high volume breeders and we have ours. Some show their dogs, many do not.

Buyer beware. Do your homework.

Do not support the unethical breeders, buy from a hobby breeder whose motive is love of the breed, not profit.

tiem.

	Breeder tribute

11.10.08.