What is a reputable breeder?

A reputable breeder is someone who cares about the breed, and does what they can to improve the breed's traits.  The breeder stands behind his/her animals and offers some sort of guarantee on their animals.  Most have some sort of written contract that protects the seller as well as the breeder AND the puppy being purchased. They are also involved in the lives of their pups after the sale, not only delighting in seeing each puppy succeed, but also wanting to know about any temperament irregularities or health problems that crop up.  A reputable breeder will cease breeding a dog if troubling trends crop up and persist, like hip dysplasia, for instance.  Even those that may not certify hips or what-not does not mean that the breeder is not concerned about issues such as these.  Most will demand their puppy be spayed to neutered in the contract UNLESS the animal is sold with breeding rights.  With such an overpopulation problem in the dog pounds/shelters, this is really the ONLY ethical/responsible thing to do.    


A reputable breeder is not necessarily into showing or the like, but most breeders are involved in the lives of their dogs in some fashion and are quite knowledgeable on the traits of their said breed.  Reputable breeders are not in it for the money, but simply enjoy the breed and desire to provide a high quality working animal or family companion to others.  Reputable breeders will have their puppies checked by a qualified veterinarian in order to provide a measure of assurance that the puppies are healthy and developing normally.  Physical problems can also be noted and dealt with appropriately (if need be) by the breeder (see some problems in "Medical questions"  section.      


Many breeders also temperament test their pups and will have a good idea which puppy is suited for which home, etc.  Though it may seem "wrong" that you cannot pick from the whole litter, it is actually to your advantage when the breeder has enough experience to be able to point you to the right 2 or 3 pups that you should choose from.  For instance, a puppy with a high play drive and an alpha dog mentality who is highly independent and difficult to get his attention, would be a nightmare for a first time dog owner.  On the other hand, a Pyrenees  puppy with a quiet personality and  a low play drive and that is more of an "observer" is the perfect puppy to fulfill its role as a livestock guardian on a farm.  Now contrast that with the family of 3 young children who have raised a dog before...they would want a puppy that is friendly, engaging, has a higher play drive (and will therefore want to interact with the children more), yet is submissive and not socially dominant.......see what I mean???  A reputable breeder will be able to help you select the right puppy!  Also, do not be surprised if you are not even allowed to pick a puppy until they are at least 6 weeks of age.  Most temperament testing is not done until 6 weeks, minimum.