I contacted a local breeder by email, informing them that I was interested in their puppies and the time frame for the purchase, along with some other details. I asked about upcoming litters, and also if they could provide references. I received a very short reply that really didn't address any of my questions. In the pictures the puppies look healthy and adorable, and I have a co-worker that purchased a dog from them some time ago, and they are happy with their dog. However, I am very put off by this short, impersonal response, especially the lack of references. What should I do?
2007-09-20 15:15:32 · 18 answers · asked by Jessica H 4 in Pets ➔ Dogs
For those of you that think I should visit a shelter or wait for a rescue...I appreciate your opinion, but at this point, that is not what is right for my family. I need a smaller dog (we live in a townhouse, so a large breed isn't right for us at this time), and I want to have it from the time it is a puppy so that it is my family that is having an impact on it's temperament. I am all for adopting dogs, but it isn't right for us at this time. Thanks for the suggestions, though!
2007-09-20 15:33:04 · update #1
Please don't care what ANYONE writes about shelters vs. breeders. The MOST responsible thing you can do is whatever is right for your family. My hubby and I initially adopted form a shelter.... it did not work out and we returned the dog. We could not find another one that suited us through our area shelters and ended up going through a breeder. And I do not feel the least bit guilty!
That being said... I think it is very important to have a good vibe about the breeder. If you are concerned about how they answered your questions then I would look elsewhere. If something ends up being wrong with the dog you may need to rely on the breeder as a resource and it sounds like these people won't be for you or the puppy if you need them.
I would recommend you look for other breeders.
2007-09-20 16:16:35 · answer #1 · answered by anon 4 · 3⤊ 0⤋
I would be seeking out a different breeder. If they won't answer your questions, then that would be a red flag to me.
You seem to be interested in a good reputable breeder and you're on the right track to finding one. Go to akc.org, search for the breed club of the breed you are looking for. From there, you should be able to find breeders in your area. Be sure to do a lot of homework on your breed. Find out if there are any genetic things this breed should be tested for and passing, before allowing to produce any litters and make sure that breeder is doing the proper testing. Find a breeder who is in to showing, as they are most often where you will find good, healthy, properly tested dogs.
Good for you wanting to find a reputable breeder... now if some of the others on here would do this, the shelters would be less over populated!
2007-09-20 16:01:45 · answer #2 · answered by Shadow's Melon 6 · 4⤊ 0⤋
Rescue from a local shelter, or if it is a particular breed you want, do an online search for that breed rescue.
Don't let a breeder profit from the suffering of animals - and, believe me, most back yard breeders and puppy mills are hell holes where the dogs live in misery cranking out puppies constantly just so the breeder can make a buck.
2007-09-20 15:24:47 · answer #3 · answered by rescue member 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Just because a co-worker purchased a dog from them doesn't mean you have to.
You said it yourself they didn't answer your questions and wouldn't give you any references.
So go to a different breeder.
There are plenty out there. Just be careful and do plenty of research. Not all breeders are reputable.
Make sure they check for genetic conditions and breed to better the breed. Check out their place and see how the dogs live.
2007-09-20 15:32:51 · answer #4 · answered by Silver Moon 7 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Email them back and say they didn't give you the information you wanted: you will now find a responsible dog breeder to buy your puppies from, someone who cares where their going. Or, don't email them back until you get a puppy, and then say: I got this really cute puppy so I don't need you anymore. It's so adorable and sweet and healthy, and the owners were nice and they told me all about it and everything!
Or, don't take my advice. I get hyper too easily.
2007-09-20 15:25:48 · answer #5 · answered by guineapiggirl 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I agree with the other two answers. if the breeder will not answer questions do not by from them. You should also never buy from a breeder that is not willing to let you visit their property to see the conditions. pictures can be deceiving. I wouldn't trust it.
I would recommend visiting your local shelter or spca. You can find pure breds there that really need a good home.
try checking petfinder.com. you can find all kinds of dogs in your area that need homes.
2007-09-20 15:24:59 · answer #6 · answered by candice p 1 · 3⤊ 0⤋
You should run. Far, far away.
Reputable breeders REQUIRE that potential buyers come in for a personal interview and fill out a questionaire about their household, previous pets, etc. They want to know everything they can about the homes their dogs are going to, and they would be happy to offer references, paperwork, shot records, pedigrees, and allow you to meet the dogs parents. Your "breeder" sounds like a backyard breeder or puppy mill, someone out to make money with no regard for the welfare of their animals. I think it's a huge red flag, and you should look elsewhere.
2007-09-20 15:23:55 · answer #7 · answered by Dreamer 7 · 7⤊ 0⤋
Go here:
http://www.akc.org/clubs/search/index.cfm?action=national&display=on
and enter the name of the breed you are interested in.
Email the national club secretary and request referrals for reputable breeders who are in good standing with the breed club.
You can't go wrong by choosing a reputable, responsible breeder who is referred by his or her peers.
Good luck!
2007-09-20 16:23:00 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
Good breeders usually go out of their way to answer all your questions and then some. I would question the "goodness" of this breeder. Have you looked on your choice of breed's national breed club's website? They will have a list of reputable and very informative breeders that would welcome your questions with enthusiasm!
2007-09-20 15:27:41 · answer #9 · answered by ♥ Liz ♫ 6 · 4⤊ 0⤋
If they don't answer your question, try another breeder, or adopt a puppy and save a life. You might want to send another e-mail. If they don't respond answering your question, again, try another breeder, or adopt a puppy and save a life.
2007-09-20 15:26:04 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 3⤊ 0⤋