Bringing a new puppy into your home is a big decision, and choosing the right breeder is crucial. Many dog lovers turn to Reddit and other online forums to gather insights on the best questions to ask a breeder before committing to a puppy.
A responsible breeder ensures that puppies are healthy, well-socialized, and ethically bred. Asking the right questions can help you determine whether the breeder is reputable and whether the puppy is the right fit for you.
Below is a comprehensive list of questions recommended by experienced dog owners and breeders on Reddit to help you find a responsible breeder and a happy, healthy puppy.
1. Questions About the Breeder’s Experience and Ethics
1. How long have you been breeding dogs?
A reputable breeder should have several years of experience and a deep understanding of their breed.
2. What breeds do you specialize in?
A good breeder focuses on one or two breeds rather than breeding multiple types of dogs at once.
3. Are you a member of any breed clubs or organizations?
Breeders who are members of organizations like the American Kennel Club (AKC) or breed-specific clubs follow ethical breeding standards.
4. Do you breed dogs for show, work, or companionship?
Understanding the breeder’s focus will help you know if the puppy’s temperament and energy level match your lifestyle.
5. How do you select which dogs to breed?
Responsible breeders carefully choose dogs based on health, temperament, and breed standard, not just appearance.
6. Can I visit your kennel or home?
Ethical breeders should allow visits to see where the puppies are raised. The environment should be clean, safe, and well-maintained.
7. Do you have references from previous buyers?
Talking to past buyers can help you understand their experience with the breeder.
2. Questions About the Puppy’s Health and Care
8. Has the puppy received vaccinations and deworming?
A responsible breeder follows a proper vaccination and deworming schedule. Ask for records.
9. Has the puppy been checked by a veterinarian?
The breeder should provide vet records showing the puppy is healthy.
10. Do you offer a health guarantee?
Most ethical breeders provide a health guarantee for genetic conditions, typically lasting one to two years.
11. Has the puppy been microchipped?
Microchipping is an added safety measure in case the dog gets lost.
12. What kind of food has the puppy been eating?
A sudden diet change can upset the puppy’s stomach, so knowing their current food is helpful.
13. Has the puppy been exposed to different environments and sounds?
Puppies should be socialized with different people, noises, and surroundings to build confidence.
14. Has the puppy started potty training?
Some breeders begin potty training before sending puppies to their new homes.
15. Has the puppy been crate trained?
If you plan to use a crate, knowing whether the puppy is familiar with one can make the transition easier.
3. Questions About the Puppy’s Parents and Genetics
16. Can I meet the puppy’s parents?
Seeing the parents can help you understand your puppy’s potential size, temperament, and health.
17. Do the parents have health clearances?
Reputable breeders test for breed-specific health issues. Common tests include:
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Hip and elbow dysplasia screening (OFA certification)
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Eye exams (CERF certification)
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Heart health tests
18. What is the temperament of the parents?
Temperament is often hereditary. Knowing the parents’ behavior can give you an idea of what to expect.
19. Have the parents been screened for genetic diseases?
Some breeds are prone to conditions like progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), degenerative myelopathy, and epilepsy.
20. What is the lifespan of the breed?
Understanding the typical lifespan can help you plan for the long-term commitment of dog ownership.
4. Questions About Socialization and Behavior
21. How do you socialize your puppies?
Proper socialization helps puppies become well-adjusted adults. Puppies should be exposed to:
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Different people (adults and children)
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Other animals
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Various sounds and textures
22. How would you describe the puppy’s personality?
Each puppy has a unique temperament. Some are playful and energetic, while others are calmer and more reserved.
23. Has the puppy been around children or other pets?
This is important if you have kids or other animals at home.
24. What training methods do you recommend?
A reputable breeder will have guidance on positive reinforcement training techniques.
25. How does the puppy react to handling?
A well-socialized puppy should be comfortable with being held and touched.
5. Questions About Adoption Policies and Contracts
26. Do you have an adoption contract?
A responsible breeder should provide a contract outlining health guarantees, return policies, and spay/neuter agreements.
27. What is your return policy if I can’t keep the puppy?
Ethical breeders prefer that the dog is returned to them instead of ending up in a shelter.
28. Will I receive registration papers for the puppy?
If the dog is purebred, you should receive AKC or other registry documents.
29. Do you require spaying or neutering?
Some breeders have contracts requiring you to spay or neuter the dog unless you plan to show or breed responsibly.
30. Do you provide post-adoption support?
Good breeders stay in touch and offer advice on training, nutrition, and health care.
6. Breed-Specific Questions to Ask
31. What common health issues affect this breed?
Some breeds have specific health concerns. For example:
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Labradors are prone to hip dysplasia.
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Bulldogs often have breathing issues.
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German Shepherds can develop degenerative myelopathy.
32. What are the grooming requirements for this breed?
Some dogs need daily brushing, while others only require occasional grooming.
33. How much exercise does this breed need?
Working breeds like Border Collies and Huskies require more exercise than Bulldogs or Pugs.
34. What is the breed’s energy level?
Some breeds are highly energetic, while others are more relaxed.
7. Red Flags to Watch Out For
The breeder refuses to show where the puppies are raised.
Puppies are available year-round with no waiting list.
The breeder doesn’t provide health records.
The environment is unclean or overcrowded.
The breeder pressures you to buy quickly.
A responsible breeder should prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs, not just make a sale.
Finding the right breeder takes time and research. Asking these questions, as suggested by dog owners and breeders on Reddit, can help you determine whether the breeder is ethical and if the puppy is a good fit for your family.
A good breeder will be transparent, knowledgeable, and supportive throughout the process. By choosing wisely, you’ll bring home a healthy, happy puppy that will be a beloved member of your family for years to come!