Breeder Referral:Responsible Breeders
Why Choose a Responsible Breeder
This article compliments of the Courteous Companions web site
-by Chris Conklin
Many people miss the point of looking for a responsible breeder. Sometimes, you've seen folks advertising AKC pups in the paper that were just bred to be pets. You feel that's just what you want. Irresponsible breeders sell puppies to 'pet' homes, and the families believe they are getting a quality dog. Many people don't realize the AKC is only responsible for registering dogs, not quality control. If you buy a dog at what seems a bargain price, you are basically playing Russian Roulette. Of course, these people are going to tell you they have good dogs; they would never say they are breeding trash! Here is an analogy:
You want to buy a used car. You know the make and model you want. You go to the dealership, lo and behold, he has two cars exactly like you wanted! Other than one is a bit shinier than the other, they look basically the same. But, when you see the prices, one is $1000, the other is $2000. Most people's reactions would be, 'what is wrong with the cheaper one?' So you ask the dealer what the difference is between the two. He replies: 'well, the one for $1000 is sold as is, when you take it off the lot, it's yours. If you have any problems, it's not my fault; I can't help you. As far as the history of the car, it belonged to someone who knows very little about cars, but he did have the oil changed once or twice. The $2000 car is sold with a full guarantee. If you have minor problems, call me anytime, and I'll tell you how to fix them. If you have major problems, bring your car and I'll try to fix them. If it can't be fixed, and they aren't problems you didn't create by mishandling the car, or not keeping up on repairs, I will replace the car, or give your money back. Oh, by the way, the car was owned by an auto mechanic who kept up on all maintenance of the car.'
Which car would you buy?? Unless you were very knowledgeable about cars, probably the $2000 one! In other words, unless someone is extremely knowledgeable about a particular breed, genetics, animal husbandry, puppy rearing, training, and evaluating temperament, they should buy from a responsible breeder.
Although your dog would only be used as a pet, it's important that your breeder is not breeding pets as well. A Weim breeder should work their dogs competitively in some way (showing, obedience, hunting, agility, etc.); as this demonstrates that their dogs are maintaining a degree of quality, and are secure that their dogs are good specimens.