How to Find and Choose the Right Breeder for You. With Bethany Preud'homme.

TL;DR

Learn how to select a reputable dog breeder.

Transcript

welcome back everyone and thank you for joining us today for another episode if you've been thinking about getting a dog this could be the video that you've been waiting for i'm here today with bethany perdon from ph dogs of riverside california and not only is she an exceptional dog trainer she also breeds working belgian shepherds under the kenne... Read More

Key Insights

• Bethany Preud'homme shares crucial tips for selecting a reputable dog breeder, emphasizing the importance of health testing and breeder goals aligning with the buyer's needs.
• Utilize resources like the AKC Marketplace, breed clubs, and veterinarians to find reputable breeders and avoid unreliable sources like Craigslist.
• Ensure breeders conduct necessary health tests, such as those by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, and verify results through public databases.
• Breeders should match puppies to buyers based on temperament and behavior rather than looks or personal preferences.
• Contracts with breeders should include stipulations on spay/neuter timing, health guarantees, and the breeder's commitment to take back dogs if necessary.
• Red flags include breeders not conducting proper health testing, offering puppies too young, or focusing on non-standard colors.
• Shipping puppies is acceptable if the breeder is reputable and willing to provide live video interactions to verify conditions.
• Adopting from a shelter requires evaluating dogs for social behavior and avoiding those showing fear or aggression.

Questions & Answers

Q: What are some resources to find a reputable dog breeder?

To find a reputable dog breeder, Bethany recommends using resources like the American Kennel Club's AKC Marketplace, breed clubs, and veterinarians. These platforms can provide information on breeders who follow health testing guidelines and have a history of producing healthy, well-tempered dogs. Avoid unreliable sources such as Craigslist.

Q: Why is health testing important when selecting a breeder?

Health testing is crucial because it ensures that the breeding dogs are free from genetic disorders that could affect the puppies' health. Reputable breeders will conduct necessary tests, such as those by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, and make results publicly available. This transparency helps buyers make informed decisions and avoid future health issues.

Q: How should breeders match puppies to buyers?

Breeders should match puppies to buyers based on temperament and behavior rather than looks or personal preferences. Good breeders spend significant time with the puppies and can assess their personalities accurately. They often use questionnaires or puppy matchmakers to ensure the match aligns with the buyer's lifestyle and needs.

Q: What should be included in a breeder's contract?

A breeder's contract should include the dog's registration number, microchip information, health guarantees, and stipulations on spay/neuter timing. It should also mention the breeder's commitment to take back the dog if the buyer can no longer care for it. This ensures both parties understand their responsibilities and expectations.

Q: What red flags should be avoided when choosing a breeder?

Red flags include breeders who do not conduct proper health testing, offer puppies too young, or focus on non-standard colors. Avoid breeders who cannot provide live video interactions or refuse to show the puppies' living conditions. These red flags often indicate a lack of professionalism and care in breeding practices.

Q: Is it acceptable to ship a puppy from a breeder?

Shipping a puppy is acceptable if the breeder is reputable and willing to provide live video interactions to verify the conditions. Ensure the breeder has conducted health testing and you have a good relationship with them. Trust and transparency are key to ensuring the puppy's well-being during transportation.

Q: What should be considered when adopting from a shelter?

When adopting from a shelter, evaluate dogs for social behavior and avoid those showing fear or aggression. Conduct simple tests to assess their sociability and choose dogs that approach with a happy demeanor. This helps ensure the dog will adapt well to a home environment and reduce potential behavioral issues.

Q: Why should buyers avoid dogs from breeders focusing on non-standard colors?

Breeders focusing on non-standard colors often prioritize appearance over health and temperament, leading to potential genetic issues. Such breeding practices can result in dogs with health problems or undesirable behaviors. It's crucial to choose breeders who adhere to breed standards and prioritize the well-being of their dogs.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Bethany Preud'homme provides guidance on finding a reputable dog breeder, highlighting the importance of health testing and aligning breeder goals with buyer needs. She advises using resources like the AKC Marketplace and breed clubs to find trustworthy breeders.

• Key red flags to avoid include breeders who don't conduct proper health testing, offer puppies too young, or focus on non-standard colors. Contracts should stipulate spay/neuter timing, health guarantees, and the breeder's commitment to take back dogs if necessary.

• For those considering adoption, Bethany suggests evaluating dogs for social behavior and avoiding those showing fear or aggression. She emphasizes the importance of choosing a dog that fits well with the adopter's lifestyle and expectations.