03/06/2023
good info on finding a puppy!
BUYING A PUPPY!
Choose your breeder wisely! Sadly, not all breeders are reputable, honest and accountable. A breeder should not just be the person who will bring your puppy into this world; they are someone who should be making sure the first few months of your puppy’s life include a healthy environment, proper socialization, appropriate vaccinations, microchipping and registrations with the national kennel club. They should be a part of your puppy-raising support team for many years to come. A breeder should also have health and genetic-tested sires and dams who are excellent examples of their breed, being as close to the national breed standard as possible. Healthy parents normally produce healthy puppies! Breeders who are showing their dogs in conformation or competing in performance events are always a plus. Most accountable breeders are entrenched in activities revolving around their dogs and their breeds, demonstrating how passionate they are.
An accountable breeder should welcome prospective puppy owners to visit them, meet their dogs and their home/kennel once the puppies are vaccinated and it is safe to do so. A breeder should want to get to know you, your family, and your lifestyle. Answer their questions honestly as it will set you up for a great relationship.
Be prepared to wait! Most accountable breeders have waiting lists and some breeders only have an occasional litter. It can take months and sometimes a year or more for a puppy to become available. Some breeders ask for deposits, some don’t. Decide what is comfortable for you as most deposits are NON-REFUNDABLE and lock you into a purchase from that breeder. Suggestion: if you decide to put down a deposit, STOP LOOKING for a puppy! Many reputable breeders do not ask for deposits and prefer to wait until puppies are born to choose the right families. For smaller breeders it lessens the pressure and any buyer disappointment when things don’t go as planned.
And where do you find a reputable breeder? This is where your homework is of the utmost importance. Check breeder listings on all national and regional breed club websites and on the Canadian Kennel Club puppy list. Look at the breeders’ pages and websites, see their pictures, stories, feedback from others. Look at the STANDINGS page on Canuck Dogs and see who is showing and participating in events. Ask other Basset Hound owners. And ask for a copy of the breeder’s sales contract. Does it meet with your ideals and beliefs; are you comfortable with their expectations and their responsibilities. Call or email the breeder! Talking to a prospective breeder may help you and them decide if this is a good fit. Attend some dog shows in your area and watch your breed in the ring. Talk to exhibitors after they have shown. Most show people, time allowing, love to talk about their breed and are a wealth of information!
Do not be afraid to ask the price of a puppy, but perhaps ask after you have had some conversation. Many breeders do not like to have your only comment be, ‘how much?’ It does not set a positive tone. Do not be afraid to go further afield and do a bit of travelling to get the right puppy for you, it might be worth that extra effort. Ask for references and then check those references.
After all is said and done, your new puppy is a 10-to-15-year commitment and a member of your family. Start right and cherish the journey!
(editor’s note: we have not discussed the purchase of a rescue or unregistered puppy in this article. Perhaps this can be discussed at another time.)
