Finding a responsible breeder

Even though I’m a huge proponent of rescue dogs, what if you have your heart set on a puppy? One thing: there’s nothing “wrong” with buying a puppy! Each one of us has our own values and life situations, and it’s not up to me or anyone else to judge someone else’s.

Before you enter puppy land, however, you need some specifics to guide you in your search.

Finding a breeder

Responsible breeders tend to focus on one breed of dog and its issues of health, genetics, temperament, and behavior. They carefully screen potential buyers, not just to insure the puppy is going to a good home, but also to make sure that the dog is a good “fit” for the potential family and their lifestyle.

To find a good breeder, ask your veterinarian or friends who own the breed you want. Contact breed clubs or breed rescue organizations, or talk with people at professional dog shows. Reputable dog trainers can also be a valuable resource when you’re looking for a breeder.

Socialization

A puppy raised without consistent and positive human relationships is far more likely to have serious issues trusting and bonding with people as it grows up. A well socialized puppy is curious, not fearful, about the sights, sounds, and smells associated with living in a human world—and you should be able to observe that from your very first interaction.

Home environment

Responsible breeders let you see puppies in their home environment. They’ll also want you to meet the mother, and see how she relates to her pups as well as the humans around her.

Is she friendly and social, or fearful and cowering? If it’s the latter, that could mean she may not be a real member of the family, but is seen as nothing more than a breeding machine.

Beware the breeder who insists on meeting you in a public place, or refuses to let you into his house. Walk away, no matter how adorable the puppy appears. Chances are that puppy has been raised in dubious conditions, and will end up suffering the effects for a lifetime.

Transparency

Responsible breeders offer referrals from others who’ve purchased their puppies — and you should contact them. A good breeder should also provide complete veterinary records for both the puppy and parents, and explain any potential genetic or developmental problems common to the breed.

After the purchase

Even after the purchase, responsible breeders are happy to offer guidance, support, and direct you to experts like veterinarians and trainers who can provide the best services for your puppy throughout its lifetime. Perhaps most important of all, trustworthy breeders demand that if at any time during its life you find yourself unable to keep the dog, you will return it to them.

So do your homework before buying a puppy. Hopefully you’ll have this cute bundle of fur for many years, and you want both its life and your own to be happy and fulfilled.

Joan Merriam lives in Nevada County with her Golden Retriever Joey, her Maine Coon cat Indy, and the abiding spirit of her beloved Golden Retriever Casey in whose memory this column is named.

You can reach Joan at joan@joanmerriam.com. And if you’re looking for a Golden, be sure to check out Homeward Bound Golden Retriever Rescue.