Looking for a new dog, but don’t know where to start? Whether you’re a first-time pet owner or have lived with one your entire life, you need to get a dog from a responsible dog breeder. It can be hard to avoid puppy mills or dog stores if you don’t know what you are looking for. Here are some tips to help you with your search.

Ask your veterinarian or friend for a referral

One of the easiest ways to find a dog breeder you can trust is to ask your local Vet. Vets work and interact with a lot of breeders. They know who takes care of their pets and who puts the interest of the dog first. You will also be able to buy locally instead of having to travel a far distance to find a pet (depending on your climate). Also, try asking a friend for the dog breeder they used. If you go to a friend’s house and love interacting with their pet, chances are they know responsible breeders. Be sure to ask as many questions about the dog breeder as you can and how they raise their dogs.

Look at a shelter or rescue group

Those who host an animal shelter or rescue group usually are responsible dog breeders themselves or know dog breeders. Dog breeders often work with these groups to make life easier for a pet. If you are still considering if a pet is right for you start with a shelter. Shelters usually have older dogs that are well trained and more laid back. This is a good option if you are a first-time owner and want an animal that wants to relax rather than play all the time. Although, each shelter and rescue group deals with different sets of dogs so each group is unique.

Search using online sources

Try using AKC or other online sources to find responsible breeders. This is good if you are looking for a specific breed of dog or one that is not in your climate. Furthermore, if you are interested in dog competitions this may be the best method. Your search opens up to the entire world, but be sure to do your homework. Some people pose as responsible dog breeders but run puppy mills, which can lead to behavioral and health issues. Try to learn as much information as you can before contacting someone.

Research your dog breeder and meet in person

Even if you get a referral from a veterinarian, make sure to ask around about the breeder. Also, a phone call won’t suffice when it comes to finding out about a dog breeder. You need to meet with a dog breeder more than once. You should ask questions about how they raise the pups, living conditions, health, parents, and what time of environment is best for the dog. The more questions they can answer the better as it shows that they have the dog’s best interest in mind. The dog breeder should also question you about how many dogs you have owned, living conditions, size of family, and other questions. You should build a relationship with that person. A dog breeder can help you find the right dog for your family with the right temperament. 

Request medical history

Remember to inquire about the medical history of the dog. The dog breeder should be able to give you all the paperwork on shots, microchip, and whether the dog has been fixed. This is important because that paperwork will follow the dog for the rest of their life. If your dog breeder doesn’t have this information or won’t give it to you, walk away from that deal. 

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