The choice of rescue vs purchase in Dogs is a hot topic. In today’s blog we are going to explore what makes a breeder ethical and responsible. Next week we’ll explore the same in rescue, as not all breeders or rescues have the best interest of the dog at heart.
A few reasons why you might choose a breeder: Interest in a particular breed for a specific purpose. IE a Border Collie for herding sheep, a Great Pyrenees for the farm/ranch livestock, a Labrador the family, a Golden retriever for service work, or a German Shepherd for protection. Some people also choose breeders to eliminate a few of the unknowns: genetic health of the dog, specific drives (toy, food, prey), temperament around specific groups of people like kids, or prior experience with a rescue that didn’t end well.
Over the years I have had both breeder dogs and rescue, each has a lesson for us, each has a story to tell, and in the end the choice which ever it may be, needs to be the RIGHT choice for you, your family, your environment, and a good fit for the dog.
Tenets of an Ethical & Responsible Breeder
An ethical and responsible dog breeder prioritizes the health, well-being, and temperament of the dogs they breed over profit. Responsible breeders are passionate about the breed and work to improve it rather than simply produce puppies for sale. Here are key traits that define such a breeder:
Health and Genetic Screening
Health Testing – Conducts genetic and health screenings for breed-specific conditions (e.g., hip dysplasia, heart issues).
Vet Care – Provides routine veterinary care, vaccinations, and deworming.
Proper Nutrition – Ensures puppies and breeding dogs receive a high-quality diet.
Breeding Practices
Selective Breeding – Breeds only healthy dogs with good temperament and strong genetics.
Limited Litters – Does not overbreed; gives mothers time to recover between litters.
Ethical Treatment
Good Living Conditions – Puppies and parents are raised in a clean, safe, and loving environment.
Proper Socialization – Exposes puppies to people, sounds, and experiences to ensure a well-adjusted temperament.
Early Training – Starts basic training and handling before puppies go to new homes.
Responsible Adoption Process
Interviewing Buyers – Screens potential owners to ensure they are a good fit for the breed.
No Pet Stores or Brokers – Sells puppies directly to responsible homes, not to pet stores or mass sellers.
Lifetime Commitment to the Dogs
Takes Back Dogs if Needed – Will accept a dog back at any time if the owner can’t keep them.
Provides Support – Offers guidance and advice to new owners.
If you have questions or need help picking a breeder for your breed of choice I recommend the following resources and of course always feel free to reach out to us and we’ll do what we can to help you!
Finding Ethical and Reputable Breeders:
Breed specific clubs are the BEST place to start a breeder search. The difference between AKC (American Kennel Club) and a Breed Club, example Doberman Pincher Club of America, is the DPCA requires breeders on the list be members in good standing, adhere to ethical standards for the specific breed, be honest in advertising, and requires written sales agreements.
American Kennel Club provides a Market place where you can browse multiple breeds and breeders in one location. When using this service look for Bred with H.E.A.R.T or Breeders of Merit for individuals with high health testing standards.
Not sure what breed might fit you best? I highly recommend the book MEET YOUR DOG by Kim Brophey for an honest, easy to follow guide on dogs best suited for various environments and those dogs genetic tendencies for various behaviors. You can also access some of this information online at https://www.meetyourdog.online/groups