Why get a dog from a breeder?

If you have set your heart on a particular breed, go in search of a reputable breeder who is a member of a breeders' club and FCI. A pedigree dog not only guarantees pure breeding based on a transparent line of ancestors, but also selection according to criteria of character and, not least, health that are typical of the breed. By belonging to a club, breeders fulfil certain controls and requirements and contribute to the typical, healthy development of their respective breed with their know-how.

With a reputable breeder, you can get to know the puppies and their parents in their home from around 4-5 weeks of age. The breeder will be happy to answer any questions you may have about their breeding and will also test you out to find out if you can offer a good home to their charges. They know the character of the little ones and can assess which puppy might be a good match for you. The puppies should be integrated into everyday life for optimal socialisation, have opportunities to play and, of course, make a lively, trusting and clean impression on you. The parents should also appear well-balanced. A good breeder will be happy to answer any questions you may have about the breed or the specific development of your new fur family member, even after the sale of their puppy.

When you take delivery of your puppy, you will, of course, receive an FCI pedigree certificate, vaccination records and, as a rule, a small supply of the usual food. Of course, a dog like this comes at a price – and often a considerable one. But remember that you are also paying for the solid background of your new family member, which includes chipping, a pedigree, veterinary examinations, deworming and vaccinations, the health care of the parents, the breeding approval and, if applicable, a stud dog.

The breeder also pays for shows, membership of the breed club, the initial costs for the puppies and the whelping box. As a rule, a reputable breeding programme is more of a beloved ‘loss-making business’, because the competent breeder is more concerned with realising a typical breeding goal and healthy offspring, not with making the greatest possible profit.