How to choose your breeder and puppy
Personally, I think a mixed breed puppy is the best option. They have less health problems, are usually smarter and much cheaper. But I know many prefer a pure bred puppy.
The second option is to look to rescue groups for your desired breed. You can do an online search for your breed + rescue group and see what's available. Or go to petfinder.com. Unfortunately they often have many more adult dogs than they do puppies.
The third choice is to find a reputable breeder. You can check to see if your local area (again do an online search) has a club in your desired breed. Call or email them and ask for recommendations.
I don't recommend ever getting a puppy from a pet store. Not only are they over priced but they usually come from puppy mills.
Once you have found a breeder, make an appointment to see the puppies. Be wary of a breeder who will not let you see the puppy's parents or the puppy's living conditions.
Another thing to consider is whether the puppies and parent dogs seem to like the breeder. Do they show them affection or cower in fear?
Ask the breeder to see the puppy's paperwork. You want to see the AKC registration, the puppy's pedigree and all the medical records regarding the puppy. The puppy should have been checked out by a vet, wormed, and depending on it's age, it should have started it series of vaccinations. Also ask if the breeder offers a written health guarantee and what the time limitations are on it.
When picking out a puppy, ask to see the whole litter and check out how they interact with each other. You want a playful puppy but not one that is overly aggressive towards his siblings. Do not pick the shyest or most timid puppy either.
Check the puppy over. It should have bright eyes without discharge. It should look lke it's well fed. Lightly pull a little bit of it's skin away from it's body and see if it bounces back or just hangs.
Once you find a puppy you are interested in, ask if the other puppies can be put away. You want to see how the puppy reacts towards you without the distractions. Will it play with you? Is it curious about you or does is shy away?
If you decide you want to buy a puppy from this breeder, make sure you get a copy of all the records you looked at earlier at the time of purchase. As soon as possible, get your own vet to check out the pup. You want to do this quickly as to not get too attached if there are serious health problems and you need to return the puppy to the breeder. Hopefully all we be fine and you and your new furry friend will have a long, happy life together.
