Dog Breeders and Sellers: What to Watch For

Adopting a new puppy is an exciting time in a person's or family's life. Many folks like to adopt purebred puppies. The newspapers and Internet are chock full of ads selling purebred puppies. However, many people overlook some very basic things when looking for a new puppy fur child.

If you make the decision to respond to a newspaper advertisement, Internet ad or in a magazine such as Dog Fancy, here are a few tips that can assist you in your selection:

1. When responding to a newspaper ad, ask the person who is selling the puppies about the parents and if the parents are on the premises.

2. If the seller of the puppies are indicating they are purebred, they must have papers issued by the American Kennel Club (AKC). Keep in mind, anyone can join the American Kennel Club, but the AKC issues breeders certification to those have passed the necessary requirements plus be registered as a member of a local AKC kennel club. Ask the seller to provide you with a copy of the AKC Kennel Club they are registered with. If they are unable or refuse, take your business else where.

3. If the seller of the puppies doesn't take a credit card, debit card or a personal check and operates on a "cash only basis", they are not a reputable breeder. Also, this breeder and seller is more than likely not operating on the "up & up", not paying state, federal or local sales tax. In many jurisdictions, if a person sells livestock such as puppies (commonly referred to as a kennel) and kittens (commonly referred to as a cattery), they are required to be licensed and/or have a proper business license or permit. They must be zoned by city, village or town ordinance to operate a business out of their home or location.

If you encounter any of the above situations in your quest to adopt a purebred puppy, report this to the appropriate law enforcement agency. They will contact the breeder/seller and begin an investigation.

Although it is your choice to adopt a purebred puppy, please consider adopting a puppy or dog from an Animal Rescue Group/Organization or your local Animal Shelter. There are many puppies and doggies waiting to meet you.


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