Big dogs small dogs... This really applies across the board no matter what breed or size of dog you choose. And you really do want to get this right!

Where to start? ok how do you recognize a good breeder?

First thing first: Good dog breeders don't post in the small ad's, they don't sell on web based free ad's. These are the realms of the puppy mills and that you don't want! They breed for profit and not for the dogs.

A good dog breeder will do a few things that will help to recognise them as reputable and serious breeders:

• They will probably ask you as many questions as you have for them
• They will be knowledgeable about the breed, and not just their own dogs
• They will be willing to provide references

In all probability the breeder will be involved in supporting or promoting the breed in several ways, perhaps a senior member of the breed club, advisor, judge. There are many ways to promote a breed.

They will always be willing to let you see the puppies with the bitch and if the sire is within reach the sire as well.
When you see the puppies it will almost certainly be in a home environment. Sometimes this may not be the case with Big Dog breeds if so they will be in the house often, and the kennels will be clean, comfortable. The puppies will be healthy, bright and interested. If any of these are not the case WALK AWAY! never be tempted to rescue a puppy form a puppy mill by buying it... you are only going to keep them in business.

The breeder will ensure that you get certificates of injections, health checks, DNA tests etc. You will probably be sent the pedigree later and it will probably be marked Not for Breeding. This can be reversed by the breeder should you decide you want to breed and the breeder is in agreement. Otherwise you are buying a pet and the pedigree wil reflect this.

A good breeder will be open and honest about the lines health, now, especially in large dogs but true of all breeds... There will be some sort of illnesses and faults through the lines and if the breeder tries to tell you otherwise WALK AWAY!.

 There is no sure fire way to get this right, but trust your instincts and be suspicious, go to dog shows, contact the breed clubs and get referrals.

Good luck and if you have any questions please feel free to contact me here

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