Health Testing Questions
Every breed has specific genetic health concerns, and responsible breeders test for them. Ask what health tests have been performed on both parents and request copies of the results. For dogs, common tests include OFA hip and elbow evaluations, CERF eye exams, and breed-specific DNA tests for conditions like degenerative myelopathy or von Willebrand's disease.
Ask about the health history of the parents' previous litters. A breeder who tracks outcomes and adjusts pairings based on health data demonstrates commitment to improvement. Also ask about the longevity of their lines — how long do their dogs typically live? This information reveals the long-term health of their breeding program.
Socialization and Raising Practices
The first 8–16 weeks of a puppy's life are critical for socialization. Ask breeders what they do during this period: exposure to various surfaces, sounds, people, and gentle handling by multiple individuals. Programs like Puppy Culture or ENS (Early Neurological Stimulation) indicate a breeder who invests in behavioural development.
Ask where the puppies are raised — in the home with family interaction, or in a separate facility. Puppies raised in a home environment with regular household exposure (vacuum cleaners, television, children, other pets) typically transition to new homes more easily than kennel-raised puppies.
Contract and Guarantee Questions
Reputable breeders provide written contracts. Ask what the contract covers: health guarantees (typically 1–2 years for genetic conditions), spay/neuter requirements, return policies if you can no longer keep the pet, and any co-ownership arrangements. Read the entire contract before signing and ask about anything you don't understand.
Ask what happens if a genetic health issue emerges. Good breeders typically offer a replacement puppy or partial refund, and most importantly, want to know about the health issue so they can adjust future breeding decisions. A breeder who has no contract or offers no health guarantee is a significant red flag.
Red-Flag Answers to Watch For
Be wary of breeders who can't name specific health tests, claim their line is "naturally healthy" and doesn't need testing, pressure you to decide quickly, won't let you meet the parents, or have puppies available immediately without a waitlist. These patterns suggest a profit-focused operation rather than a responsible breeding program.
Also be cautious if a breeder discourages you from getting your own veterinary evaluation, won't provide references from previous buyers or their veterinarian, breeds females every heat cycle, or has puppies available in multiple breeds. These are hallmarks of high-volume breeders prioritizing production over welfare.
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