If you are looking to add a new purebred furry family member to your pack, choosing a breeder is one of the biggest decisions you will make. Knowing what to look for in a breeder can give you peace of mind that you are supporting a responsible operation. Here are some of our tips to find a good breeder:

Avoid internet classified sites – an in-person visit is the best way to determine the breeding conditions. Puppy mills and non-reputable breeders will often use internet classified ads to advertise and sell their dogs.

Contact breed and kennel clubs – reach out to the national or regional breed club for the breed you are interested in, or your local kennel club, for referrals. For breeders to join these clubs, they should have to follow a code of ethics.

Word-of-mouth referrals – speaking to people who already own the breed you are interested in can be a great source of information. They can also point you in the direction of a responsible, trustworthy breeder.

An in-person visit – visiting and seeing the conditions the dogs and puppies are kept in is the only way you can be sure that the breeder is breeding in a responsible way. A good breeder will welcome (and often insist) on an in-person visit so that you can see the pups and learn more about the breed.

Be ready to answer questions – a good breeder will have questions for you as well. They want to ensure their puppies are going to a good, and appropriate, home for the breed’s activity and personality needs.

Before you make a financial commitment, be sure to visit the breeder and ask any questions you may have. You’ll also want to learn about the breeding history and look at any relevant paperwork. A responsible breeder won’t shy away from these questions – they’ll love to talk about their pups!

Choosing a new puppy is a big and exciting decision. We’d love to see pictures of your new pup! Share photos and tag us on Instagram @petsplusus