Rufnit Kennels Braque du Bourbonnais - What is a Reputable Breeder
What is a "Reputable Breeder"?
You will find a Reputable Breeder...
has
done testing on the breeding stock used and is willing and able to
discuss whatever faults his/her dogs have (and all dogs have them. No
dog is perfect).
does
not breed dogs "to make money" or so "our children can experience the
miracle of birth" or "we want to have another dog just like Jane" or "we
want a litter before we spay/neuter our dog." A reputable breeder
breeds to advance their breeding program and for the love and devotion
to purebred dogs.
will
tell you the good points as well as the bad points of the breed. They
want to make sure you are fully aware of what to expect before you buy
the puppy. Cute little puppies grow into adult dogs.
breeds
a litter if they intend on keeping something out of the litter. They are
breeding to further improve their breeding program, not just to produce
puppies for pet buyers.
can
explain the reasoning behind breeding a particular dog to a particular
bitch. They should be attempting to reach perfection as defined by the
breed's standard. In the attempt to reach this goal with the resulting
puppies, they should be able to explain the good points of each dog and
what things they are trying to improve.
will
provide you with a pedigree of the puppies. A pedigree usually has at
least three generations of the puppies' ancestors listed.
does
not breed a volume of puppies. A breeder with 7 adult bitches is not
going to breed all 7 in a single year. Bitches are not bred on
consecutive heat cycles.
has
a waiting list for future progeny. They do not breed unless they have
sufficient homes awaiting.
request
a deposit from future buyers to ensure their commitment and sincerity.
provides
a sanitary environment for the puppies.
provides
proper medical care and nutrition to all of his/her dogs/puppies and
will provide medical records.
has
so much invested in their dogs and equipment that they struggle to break
even, not make a profit (better known as "hobby" breeders).
can
discuss the socialization and exposure of the puppies and can make
recommendations for continued socialization/exposure and training.
participates
in some sort of dog related events and has statistics/records to confirm
their participation. They do something with their dogs!
usually
belongs to some sort of dog club or organization and is positively
recognized for their breeding efforts.
is
licensed/certified in their state. Complies with all the rules and
regulations set for operating a breeding kennel.
is
willing to give you references from previous puppy buyers. Those new to
breeding should be able to give you references from other breeders of
their breed. They aren't offended if you ask them for references.
Talking to references will help you to judge the character of the
breeder.
may
ask you for references. The breeder wants to be sure that the housing
or yard is suitable for the dog. A large dog wouldn't necessarily do
well in a small apartment. Some breeds need to have a fenced yard with
secure fencing for their own protection. The breeder is looking for the
ideal situation for the puppy. They want the owner to be happy and not
return the puppy because it was ill suited for the environment or
life-style of the buyer. Will only sell pups to approved buyers.
believes
in service after the sale. If a puppy buyer has grooming questions,
feeding questions, or training questions, the breeder will be there for
you long after the puppy is no longer a puppy.
will
take back any of their progeny at any age. Reputable breeders do not
want to find out a dog they bred has been left in a pound or dumped by
the roadside. They assume a lifetime responsibility for the canine lives
they have put on this earth. They require the pup be returned to them
should a situation arise and a puppy/dog need to be relocated.
would
NEVER sell pups through a retail outlet, animal broker or laboratory.
There are many reputable breeders of fine upland hunting dogs throughout
North America. Unfortunately in this business like so many others, the
buyer needs to be aware. Make sure that the puppy comes from a line of
dogs that have good health credentials. There should be a good history
in the pedigree of dogs that perform in the field (field trials, hunt
tests, etc.). As a rule, avoid "backyard breeders." Leave the art and
science of breeding to the breeders experienced with the breed and have
produced proven progeny. Take the time to make contacts and see if
there are any consistent problems reported about the particular breeder
you have selected. NAVHDA (North American Versatile Hunting Dog
Association) is the foundation registry and testing organization for the
Braque du Bourbonnais in North America.
Remember that the least expensive part of the cost of a dog is its
initial price. Veterinarian bills, feeding, kenneling, training, etc.
are what really cost the most. Our advice: Do your research, you and
your companion will benefit in the long run.
