Finding a Good Breeder

This time of year many people are getting new puppies. When considering breeders, owners should ask to see the sire and dame of any puppy they're considering. A good breeder will be happy to comply, and be very interested in telling you all about their best qualities. Seeing the parents can give you a look into your future's pup's health and temperament, as many of those traits can be inherited from parents.

Also, a great deal of a dog's personality can be molded by experiences (or lack of experiences) early in life. So best breeders will be working on healthy socialization exercises with their pups. Be inquisitve, and ask a prospective breeder about how they help pups adjust to their new world. Favorable exposures to people, places and things is important in the first nmonths of life.

Finally, spend time getting to know the actual dog you're planning on buying or adopting - personalities will vary even among litter mates. Choose a good personality match for your family, and ask the breeder for their suggestions. A good breeder should be as interested in you, as you are in them. They will want their dogs to be in good home, and to be a good match for a new family.

And please remember that rescues and shelters have many great dogs available as well! Dogs of all ages, even pure-breeds if that's your desire.