Choosing a New Dog - Breeders - Part 1

With the holidays approaching, many families will consider adding a new dog to their home. I thought I'd share some thoughts regarding sources for finding a new pet based on my experiences. I will be posting 3 consecutive threads over the coming weeks regarding breeders, pet stores, and shelters/rescues. The purpose of these posts is not to say one source for finding a new pet is best, but to offer some pros and cons of each from my perspective as a trainer. Today I will discuss breeders.

Read the other articles in this series...
Choosing a New Dog - Pet Stores - Part 2
Choosing a New Dog - Shelters and Rescues - Part 3

For many people wanting a new dog, they often look for a particular breed. Seeking a new dog based on breed is very common, and there's certainly no problem doing so. Dogs of a particular breed will obviously have genetic similarities that can assure certain physical traits, and provide likelihood of certain behavioral traits. I think it's critical owners understand that every breed has individual dogs that are outstanding and others that are real problems. Getting a dog of a certain pedigree is no guarantee the individual dog you choose will have a personality that is a good match for your home. In other words, just because a breed is reported to be laid back and good with children, a specific dog of that breed might be hyperactive, skittish, or dislike children. Choose a dog based on the individual's personality, not the breed!

For owners exploring what breed may be best suited for their home and family, I would caution that most online information tends to advocate for each individual breed. It's very hard to find sites that offer balanced information including the downside(s) of specific breeds. Breeder sites, in particular, are very prone to making their "breed" sound like the best dog breed in the world. In reality, all breeds have pros and cons, so any research should keep this in mind. If you know people that have the breed you are considering, a visit is a very good idea. Additionally, if you are considering a variety off breeds in your search, going to a dog show or other event that features many breeds can be a great way to gain some exposure and knowledge as you talk with handlers and owners. Along these lines, if you are choosing a dog based solely on looks or physical characteristics, you are likely to have an unpleasant ownership experience. Choose a dog based on the individual's personality, not looks!

Another consideration here is that all pure breeds started out with inbreeding. This practice assures certain breed traits at the expense of weaker genetic vigor. In other words, the lack of genetic diversity in breeding programs creates health issues in those same breeds. Good breeders try to manage this, but many popular breeds see people breeding dogs that have absolutely NO understanding of genetics. This will contribute significant health and behavioral issues into the gene pool. I've run into many dogs from questionable "breeders" that clearly had breeding stock with serious behavioral or health issues - stock that should never have been producing puppies.

IMO purebred shows and awards are based too much on form, rather than longevity, vigor, and temperament. The more awards gained, the higher the price a breeder may charge for pups. If a breeder is going out of their way to show you ribbons for parents, I'd be wary. I'd prefer to actually see both parents, to get a first hand impression of their health and temperament. What are the typical lifespans and health of the line you are considering for your pup?

Good breeding is tremendously hard work, so best breeders typically have only a few litters annually - breeders churning out large numbers of puppies are another reason to be cautious. Best breeders will also have clearly defined socialization programs in place for pups under their care. Ask any breeder you are considering whether they will take back a puppy that has any significant health or behavioral issues - reputable breeders will want such pups back, and should be as concerned about giving you a good puppy for your home as you are finding one.

BREEDERS:
pros: known physical characteristics. common behavioral tendencies, known lineage, can research breeder's reputation
cons: behavior not guaranteed, breed specific health issues due to lack of genetic diversity, breeding and marketing on looks vs health and temperament

Stay tuned for pet store dogs in 2 weeks!