A responsible breeder is continually improving the quality of his dogs. They know that the background of the bloodline in a dog's pedigree is essential to prevent possible genetic disorders.

A reputable breeder wants to produce the healthiest and happiest puppy possible. Therefore, he puts time, knowledge and dollars into his breeding program.

By choosing a breeder that is responsible, he will tell you the lineage that your puppy came from so you will know the father's and mother's heritage and have the papers to prove it. You will know your puppy is from good stock.

He will want to know things about you before he will sell you one of his puppies. A good breeder cares what kind of home his puppy is going to. He may ask you your work schedule, about your household, your ability to care properly for a puppy and even about your yard. He also expects you to ask him questions too.

SO HOW TO FIND A REPUTABLE BREEDER.

Local dog club

Veterinarian - ask him if he knows any breeder, which has the kind you want, what type of care they give their puppies.

Local dog trainer - go to a class and watch, if you see a dog you like talk to the owner and talk to the instructor.

Dog shows - observe the breed you want and get the name of the breeder and call him later to talk to him.

Other breeders - can give you recommendation for the breed you want.

Purebred Breeders of Dogs Directory - a web site that helps you find dog breeders in your area and helps guide you through the process.

Once you choose a breeder you think you want to get your puppy from you need to visit with questions in hand. Ask him questions related to the dog breed you want. Find out his philosophy on breeding, puppy qualities and lineage of the puppies. You should feel comfortable with him and someone you feel cares about his dogs.

Ask him if he involved in any dog or breed clubs. A reputable breeder is involved in these activities to keep informed about what is happening in his dog breed and health concerns.

THERE ARE MANY THINGS TO LOOK FOR WHEN YOU VISIT THE BREEDER.

Is the kennel clean?

Are the puppies clean?

Are the older dogs clean and groomed?

Are the puppies happy, healthy, well cared for?

Do the other dogs look happy, healthy, friendly and well cared for?

How are the puppies being raised? Do they have human contact? Socialization with people and environment is critical for puppies. They need constant contact with people and household sounds especially in those first few weeks.

WHEN YOU PURCHASE YOUR PUPPY,YOU SHOULD RECEIVE THE FOLLOWING:

Pedigree

Feeding instructions and schedule.

A booklet or packet of information on puppy care, on books, etc.

Registration papers - may hold until proof of spaying or neutered.

Health papers - puppy's immunization records updated

Written and signed contract - specifying rights of buyer and breeder's rights.

Signed veterinary health certificate with a written health quarantee, which includes one about congenital defect.

ACVD eye screening, OFA or Penn Hip certificate completed.

Ask breeder if he allows set time to return puppy in same condition as time of sale with full refund. Take him to your vet to check him out in this time period. A responsible breeder will always take puppy back although you might not get a refund after your time period is up.

He should always be willing to answer your questions now and in the future. He should be interested in any problems that develop with your puppy if they arise.

Now which puppy in the litter should you take home?

Ask the breeder which ones are shy, most curious, more mischievous or dominant. Watch them to see how each puppy is at play with his littermates, how he is around his mother and by himself.

Is he friendly and eager to greet people? Does he like t climb on you, lick or kiss you and follow you around? If you call him and snap your fingers, does he come to you? All of these things are good signs.

If he growls at you he might be dominance or fear induced, cringes at your touch, bites, runs from loud noises and doesn't come back - you don't want him!

Be sure he moves around easily, has no discharge from nose, ears or eyes.

Just be patient and take your time picking out the right puppy for you.