Choosing an ethical dog breeder is critical in welcoming a healthy and well-adjusted puppy into your home. A reputable breeder prioritizes their dogs’ health, temperament, and well-being, ensuring that each puppy is set up for success in its new life. In contrast, unethical practices from backyard breeders can lead to health problems, behavioral issues, and heartbreak for both dogs and owners. Knowing what to look for can make all the difference. Here are some key signs of an ethical dog breeder that indicate ethical and responsible breeding practices and can give you peace of mind that you’re investing in a happy, lifelong partnership with your new furry friend.

Check for Health-Tested Dogs

Ethical breeders conduct health testing on their breeding dogs to screen for genetic disorders common to the breed. They should provide proof of these tests, such as OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) certifications, eye clearances, and other relevant health screenings. Be wary of breeders who don’t have this documentation or have excuses as to why they chose not to do them. 

The recommended screenings are typically set by breed via the associated AKC National Breed Club. For example, the Golden Retriever Club of America defines their recommendations here.

Meet the Parents and Visit the Breeding Facility/Home

An ethical breeder allows you to meet at least one of the puppy’s parents, usually the mother. Observing the parent’s temperament and health provides valuable insights into what you can expect from your puppy. Additionally, a responsible breeder will typically allow you to see where the puppies are housed and raised either virtually or in-person. The environment should be clean, well-maintained, and conducive to proper socialization. Beware of breeders who refuse to let you visit, keep their puppies in barns or other structures outside of their homes, or only meet in neutral locations like parking lots.

Ask About the Socialization Plan

Ethical breeders understand the importance of early socialization and will have a plan to expose puppies to various sights, sounds, and experiences. They may begin crate training, introduce different surfaces, and interact with people of various ages to help puppies adjust to their future homes. Socialization is key to raising a healthy, confident dog, and ethical breeders know to start early.

Many breeders follow standardized programs like Puppy Culture while others may follow their own plan. No matter what program they use, ethical breeder will be eager to thoroughly explain their socialization process at all ages from when the puppies are whelped.

Review Purpose, Titles and Achievements

Typically, ethical breeders focus on producing purpose-bred dogs that excel in conformation, sports, work, or companionship. These breeders are passionate about preserving the traits and functions of their chosen breed. The dogs used for breeding often have titles or achievements in areas like AKC confirmation shows, dog sports, or working disciplines. These titles indicate the breeder’s dedication to producing dogs that excel in their field and meet breed standards.

Depending on your goals, you may also inquire if any of the breeder’s puppies have been successfully been trained as service or therapy dogs, earned their Canine Good Citizen, or simply how well they’ve done as family pets.

Some breeders do breed specifically for lines that make excellent family pets. Although these dogs may not need sport titles, it will be important to ensure they are still being health tested and ethically raised.

Screen for Breed Specialization and Lifetime Commitments

Reputable breeders typically specialize in one breed. This focus allows them to gain deep knowledge and expertise in that breed’s health, temperament, and specific needs. They will be able to answer any questions you may have about the breed with their extensive knowledge. An ethical breeder will also include a contract stipulating that they must be contacted if the dog needs to be rehomed at any point in its life. This ensures the breeder can find the dog a suitable new home, avoiding the risk of the dog ending up in a shelter.

Inquiry About a Waitlist and Responsible Breeding Practices

Instead of breeding indiscriminately, ethical breeders maintain a waitlist and only breed when they have homes lined up for the puppies. Ethical breeders limit how often and when their dogs are bred. Breeding dogs typically no more than once per year, and only after they are at least two years old, ensures that the parent dogs remain healthy and mature before producing a litter. This approach minimizes overbreeding, helps maintain the breeding dog’s health, and ensures puppies are placed with carefully vetted families. 

Typically, a breeder that has puppies “available” more often than not or has multiple listings on their website at any given time can be a red flag.

Thoughtful Family Screening and Puppy Placement

Ethical breeders thoroughly vet prospective buyers, asking questions about their lifestyle, experience with dogs, and expectations. Rather than selling puppies based on appearance or color preferences, ethical breeders temperament-test each puppy and match them to families based on compatibility. This thoughtful placement reduces the likelihood of behavioral issues or mismatches and helps them determine if the breed is a good match for the family. 

An ethical breeder will never allow their puppies to go home before they are 8 weeks old. Not only is this crucial for the puppy’s health and development, but required by Connecticut law!

Finding an Ethical Dog Breeder is Worth the Effort!

Knowing the signs of an ethical dog breeder can help you make an informed decision on your next dog. Although finding an ethical breeder may take time, the benefits are well worth the effort. While never guaranteed, a well-bred, healthy puppy with a stable temperament is more likely to grow into a well-adjusted, loving companion. By choosing an ethical breeder, you support responsible breeding practices and the welfare of the dogs.

When you’re ready to welcome a new furry family member, do your research, ask questions, and trust your instincts. An ethical breeder will welcome your inquiries and be just as invested in ensuring a good match as you are.

For your dog training needs, be sure to contact Where Sit Happens, where we can help your dogs become the best they can be!