About Dog Breeders
There are reputable dog breeders and then there are the so-called "backyard breeders." For a person looking for a pet dog (versus a show dog) it can seem silly to look for a reputable breeder with pedigree rather than just calling someone in the paper. However, backyard breeders have helped to promote health and temperament defects which can be a concern, even for an ordinary dog lover.
Defined
A dog breeder is of course someone who raises dogs for the purpose of breeding them. In essence, a person requires no actual qualifications or training to become a dog breeder. It's for this reason that while there are many qualified dog breeders in the U.S., there are also many puppy mills and "backyard breeders." A good dog breeder's primary concern isn't profit, but the welfare of the breed.
Code of Ethics
A good dog breeder will work closely with the kennel club of the dog they breed. Most kennel club's have a code of ethics which members have to adhere to. A person searching for a good breeder should look for a breeder that follows the code of ethics. Some of the rules you can find in the code of ethics include breeding only for the purpose of improving the quality of the breed, knowledge of inherited health issues, providing copies of health clearances and not releasing a puppy until it is at least 7 weeks old.
Kennel Club Registration and Pedigree
The term "papers" can be found in many "puppies 4 sale" ads. However, this can be deceiving. While many breeders do offer American Kennel Club papers, all this means is that the parents of the puppy were registered with the AKC. AKC registration has no bearing on the health of a puppy. Conversely, a dog's pedigree will show the dog's lineage going back several generations. It can also highlight health conditions by showing cause of death.
Identifying a Responsible Breeder
The Humane Society has an excellent article regarding what to look for in a good breeder. Some of the items included on their list are: a breeder that keeps dogs in their home as part of the family, not in an outside kennel; a breeder who encourages you to spend time with the puppy's parents; someone who only breeds one or two types of dogs and is able to show you a veterinary record. In addition, many responsible breeders are willing to take back the dog at any time should you no longer want the dog.
Considerations
One major concern with dog breeders is that it helps to perpetuate certain genetic health-related problems. Hip dysplasia is one such problem, which is why it is important to work with a reputable breeder. Reputable breeders won't breed their dogs until the dog is two years of age. Two is the also the minimum age in which a dog can be cleared of hip dysplasia and other genetic health conditions. The best way to avoid such genetic health problems is to choose a reputable breeder.
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