RedTie Reputable Breeders
Abruzzenhund

 

What is the breed you are looking for?

What should I look for in a breeder?

• A reputable breeder only breeds a very few types of dogs and is knowledgeable on the various breeds he or she raises.
• A reputable breeder only pre-sells litters. This means that the puppies are all sold before they are born. Often these breeders will have waiting lists to get puppies because they put the female dogs health first, not the dollar value of the puppies. Reputable breeders will only let a female have one litter a year or possibly one litter every two years.
• A reputable breeder interviews you and has you complete a questionnaire or application before agreeing to sell you a puppy. This may include questions on your income, people in your home, size of your home or even if you have other pets.
• A reputable breeder has a good reputation with other breeders in the area. This usually means being registered as a breeder with the local or national breed registries as well as the Kennel Club for the country.
• A reputable breeder allows and encourages you as the prospective owner to tour their facilities and see the adult dogs and litters they may have on hand.
• A reputable breeder keeps clean, well-ventilated and spacious kennels with happy and healthy adult dogs. Good signs are the presence of dog beds and elevated dog feeders.
• A reputable breeder interacts well with all the dogs in the kennel and knows the dogs by name. Watch how the dogs interact with the breeder. Are they happy to see him or her or do they appear nervous or timid?
• A reputable breeder offers litter registration papers as well as all paperwork required for AKC, CKC, KC or other registration.
• A reputable breeder provides information on the championship lines of the parents as well as vet certificates and genetic condition test results.
• A reputable breeder provides a health guarantee for the puppy.

How to buy a healthy puppy.

The best age at which to buy a puppy is around eight weeks of age. They have become self-reliant, but are still impressionable. It is also a good time to establish some bonds of affection and begin training. The young puppy learns rules of behavior and how to relate to others from his littermates and his mother's reactions. The overly aggressive pup will probably be aggressive as an older dog; the withdrawn, inactive puppy will probably remain timid. Although care, feeding, and socialization of a pet after purchase are very important, you can determine much from their behavior at eight weeks of age. Pick a puppy that likes to play, is eager for attention, and reacts positively to affection.

Examine the condition of the puppy. Is the nose cool and damp, or are there signs of a nasal discharge? The gums should be a bright pink; a pale color can mean anemia or a problem with worms. Are the teeth clean and straight? If the upper and lower teeth are undershot or overshot, the problem will not correct itself. Eyes should be bright, clear, and look straight ahead. White spots or visible lines on the surface of the eye can mean problems. Check for redness or inflammation of the third eyelid, or eyelids that roll in or outward. The ear canals should be clean and odor-free. A build-up of wax and dirt, head shaking, or tenderness could indicate ear mites or infection.

Feel the stomach. A swollen stomach can indicate poor diet or possible worm infestation. A bulge at the navel or groin can mean a hernia. Is the heartbeat strong and regular? The genitals should be clean and free from irritation, which could indicate worms, diarrhea, or a digestive disorder. Both testicles should be present in the male. The coat should be fluffy, clean, and free of mats. Sores, itching, or deposits in the fur indicate fleas, mites, or other parasites.

Finally, check for soundness and structure. Are the legs straight and well formed? Are the toes well arched? Does the pet run without lameness? Be wary of an animal that is thin and underweight or noticeably overweight. The most desirable pet is one that appears correctly proportioned for his age and weight.

Ask for a record of vaccinations, suggested diet, and registration papers for a pure breed. You have taken all the right steps to ensure a healthy start. Congratulations! That energetic, bright-eyed puppy is going home with you.