Buying a pedigree can be a tricky task if you don’t know what you’re doing.
A puppy hardly looks like the adult it’s supposed to grow into, till it does.
That makes it easy for breeders to fool you with a mixed breed.
So without further ado, let’s get into some of the inquiries you should make before buying a puppy from a breeder.
Is he/she (your breeder) licensed to sell?
A license is a must when it comes to buying from a breeder.
Having a license ensures that the breeder is certified and liable for any contracts he makes.
You can also guess the experience level of the breeder based on how old the license is. So make sure your breeder has one!
Do the parents have BTD registration?
Reputable dog breeders test their mating dogs for fitness, temperament, and pedigree before breeding.
This ensures that the puppies they produce are healthy and well-rounded.
Look into the parents before buying your puppy.
If they are BTD registered, then your puppy will grow into a healthy dog with no possible health issues.
Is your breeder going to provide you with a contract agreement?
Make a proper contract with your breeder for the transfer of ownership.
Breeders have rights to the puppy even after you adopt them.
Doesn’t sound fair?
Well, when you’re paying for the dog and taking care of it, it should be yours.
But according to most contractual agreements, it only makes you an adopter. The breeder can claim part ownership.
This allows you to return the dog to the breeder if you’re unable to care for it or if the puppy falls ill.
Do the parents have a low hip score?
A hip score is the evidence of hip dysplasia in the parents, which the puppy will inherit.
Look for a low hip score on the parents’ records.
Ask your breeder to see the parents and the grandparents of the puppy.
Check their records for the hip score and BTD registration.
Did the puppies go through an education program?
Some dog breeders put their puppies through an education program.
These programs train puppies to become more social with strangers and other dogs.
Puppies with an education program adjust to a new home with ease.
Another tip to go along with it would be to spend a reasonable amount of time with the puppy before you decide to take it home.
Some breeders let you spend the night with them. Do that if you have the option.
If you have other dogs at home, bring them in, and see if the puppy can adjust with them.
Have the puppies been De-wormed and Vaccinated?
Ask your breeder for all de-worming and vaccination prescriptions.
Also, get a proof of purchase from him/her, and make sure all the paperwork is up-to-date.
Buying from any breeder is easy, but buying from the right one is tough.
The safest way to go is to look for reputable breeders with a couple of years of experience.
Another way to find a reliable breeder is to check animal welfare organizations.
These organizations keep a strict eye on breeders to prevent cruelty and illegal breeding.
A breeder recommended by a welfare officer is indeed someone with the right credentials.
