03/06/2026
đž Thinking about bringing home a puppy? Read this first. đž
Every week I work with dogs from all kinds of backgrounds. Some come from incredible breeders⌠and some come from situations that lead to years of preventable health or behaviour issues.
If youâre searching for a puppy, here are a few major red flags to watch for đ
đŠ Breeder Red Flags
⢠âVet checkedâ but no proof of genetic or orthopedic testing
⢠No registered names or pedigrees for the parents
⢠Health testing claims but no documentation available
⢠Pressure to buy quickly or send deposits immediately
⢠Multiple litters always available
A responsible breeder should be able to show you clear documentation, not just tell you it exists.
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Things good breeders provide:
⢠Hip & elbow testing through OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals)
⢠Registration and pedigree through the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC)
⢠Genetic screening through reputable labs such as Embark
⢠Transparency about the parentsâ health, temperament, and lineage
Taking the time to verify these things now can prevent a lot of heartbreak, medical costs, and stress later.
The right puppy, and the right breeder, is always worth waiting for.
Helpful resources if youâre researching breeders:
đ OFA: https://www.ofa.org
đ CKC: https://www.ckc.ca
𧏠Embark: https://embarkvet.com
If you ever have questions about choosing a puppy or breeder, feel free to reach out. Iâm always happy to help point people in the right direction. â¤ď¸
Thinking about getting a puppy soon? Drop the breed youâre considering in the comments! đ
