By Lisa Peterson

Welcome to The Sport of Purebred Dogs.As part of the Newtown Kennel Club’s continuing public education about purebred dogs and dog shows, this monthly column will focus on the information, issues, events and people in the dog fancy.

What is at the root of the dog fancy? Owning a purebred canine. And that begins with buying a purebred puppy. Buying a purebred is an important decision. To start with you must select the right breed for you and your lifestyle. Now it’s time to do your homework.

+Read a copy of The Complete Dog Book, 19th edition, revised. This is an official publication of the American Kennel Club. It has all the up-to-date information on all AKC-recognized breeds. Here you will get a good idea on what breeds appeal to you and whether or not a specific breed will suit your lifestyle.

+Visit the American Kennel Club website at www.akc.org. In addition to more breed facts, you can access very informative articles written by prominent people in the fancy about purebred dog ownership and selecting a puppy. A list of national breed clubs with breeder contacts across the country can also be found.

+Visit a dog show. Here is where you will find the reputable breeder in action before judges granting awards for producing quality dogs. An excellent website, www.infodog.com, lists many of the upcoming shows across the country. Keep in mind the fast-paced dog show atmosphere may not be the best time for talk and interaction. Ask for an appointment to discuss your needs. Many breeders will give you a business card and encourage you to call. Take them up on the offer.

+After you have made your breed selection, or at least narrowed the search down to a few possibilities, it’s time to find a reputable breeder in your area. Buy from a breeder, not a pet shop. Only reputable breeders offer the finest quality purebred puppies.

+The Newtown Kennel Club offers a breeder referral service, free to the public. Each week in The Newtown Bee in the classified section Cats & Dogs, you will find “Looking for an AKC Reg Puppy?” Call any of the phone numbers listed and a NKC member will assist you in finding reputable breeders.

Before you call a breeder learn as much as you can about the breed and have questions ready to ask. While you are interviewing your perspective breeder, they will be screening you as well to be an acceptable buyer for their puppies. Here’s what to look for in a breeder:

+Does the breeder talk you up on the phone? Ask you particular questions about your living situation? How many hours will the pup be alone? Who will care for the animal? What type of living arrangements do you have for the pup’s safety? What do you do for a living? Some breeders will get very personal and want to know what type of person you are and if you can afford the puppy long-term. Don’t be offended. The more questions the breeder asks, the better. It will become obvious that they care about where their puppies end up. Above all feel comfortable with the breeder hopefully you will become part of an extended family relationship that will last many years.

+Ask to visit the facility where the puppies are whelped and raised. Do you see a clean, bright, well-ventilated area? Are you happy with the outdoor accommodations? Use your own judgment. Do you like what you see or not. If not, move on to the next breeder on your list.

+Some breeds have specific health screenings conducted before a breeding takes place. Familiarize yourself with these and ask for verification of health checks. OFA for hips and CERF for eyes are two of the more common health registries for breeding stock. Ask how long they have been breeding and do they show. How many litters a year do they produce? Watch out for high volume breeders, those with more than a few litters per year should be a red flag to breeding for profit not quality.

+If the breeding has not yet taken place ask to see and interact with the brood bitch. Does she look in good health and proper weight? Get a feel for her temperament. If the bitch has just whelped a litter, the breeder may keep you from seeing her and the newborn puppies to protect them from possible disease. If you have children, bring them with you to the breeder’s home and let your kids interact with other representatives of the breed. Ask to see both a male and female example.

+Is the stud dog available? Sometime they are. Most times they are not. Stud dogs are located across the country. It is not unusual for a sire to live in California for a litter whelped in New York. Do ask to see a photo, certificates for health screenings, and even for the phone number of the stud dog owner. Ask for phone numbers of other clients who have purchased puppies from this breeder for references.

+A sales contract should be part of the deal. Ask to see one before you purchase. Find out what restrictions, if any, the breeder places on puppies sold. Ask about a health guaranties, return policies and the price ahead of time. Have the breeder explain which type of – full or limited – AKC registration that will be issued for the puppy.

The reputable breeder should be able to steer you in the right direction. They will be up front and may tell you they don’t think the breed you have selected is right for you and your family. If the breed is a fit, they can help you select a male or female if you are undecided. Try to talk to and visit as many breeders as possible before selecting your choice. The right breeder for you will make you feel comfortable with your purchase and that you enjoy your new pup for years to come. They should also be available after the puppy goes to its new home for follow-up phone calls should questions arise.

Purchase price should be on the bottom of your list. Some breeders will sell show and pet quality puppies at different prices. Some will tell you there is no difference between the two. A slight show fault doesn’t diminish the overall quality and health of the puppy. Some breeders will ask for a non-refundable deposit because waiting lists can be long. Be patient. Having a healthy, happy puppy that was well researched and planned for will bring you a lifetime of enjoyment.

 

Lisa Peterson is the Public Education Coordinator for the Newtown Kennel Club. She is a long-time breeder and exhibitor of Norwegian Elkhounds in conformation and obedience.