|
But
where should you start your search for your perfect
puppy?
The American Kennel Club
and
The Bichon Frise Club of
America both recommend that once you have
decided which breed would be a good fit with your
family, that you then look for a responsible and
reputable breeder. Both of these websites have
breeder directories but you can also ask for
referrals from veterinarians and other people who
have acquired bichon puppies. Responsible
breeding practices will give your puppy a good start
to a long, healthy and happy life.
When
looking for a breeder keep in mind that ...
A reputable breeder ...
is dedicated to producing quality dogs through
planned breedings that will improve the quality of
the breed. She loves the breed and is capable
of talking at length abou the breed and how her
planned breedings emphasize specific qualities and
will improve her own bloodlines. The
temperament of her dogs is of prime importance and
breeds only dogs of stable temperament.
A reputable breeder ...
knows the breed standard and breeds dogs that meet
the standard. She will research pedigrees
before breeding and know the ancestry of the litter
bred. The pedigrees will consist of quality
dogs that have obtained titles and never have a dog
without "papers."
A reputable breeder ...
does extensive testing of her breeding stock and
will only breed those dogs that test clear of any
genetic or degenerative defects. This is
information a breeder should be willing to discuss
with a prospective puppy owner. In addition,
the breeder provides proper medical care and
nutrition and should provide you with medical
records for your new puppy. The puppy contract
should also offer a health guarantee.
A reputable breeder ...
will show a buyer the puppies and the dam.
They are raised and kept in a sanitary and homey
environment. The breeder is able to explain
the criteria for "show potential" vs. "pet puppies".
All puppies are sold on a contract basis and pet
puppies are sold on a spay/neuter contract (may NOT
be used for breeding) and AKC limited registration.
Special contracts are made between show dog owners
and the breeder. The price of a puppy through
a breeder is costly but does not reflect all the
costs that have already been invested in the
puppies.
A reputable breeder ...
will socialize puppies with people and other animals
and expose them to a variety of noises and
situations. The breeder will make every effort
to match a puppy's temperament with a buyer's
personality. The breeder will also help and
educate the puppy buyer about housebreaking,
training, socialization, grooming, etc. and be
available for advice during the life of the dog. |
