5 Key Questions to Ask Dog Breeders Before Buying

When you’re looking to buy a purebred puppy with official American Kennel Club (AKC) registered pedigree papers, it’s important to understand the types of breeders out there. In the U.S., dog breeders range from full-time professionals who depend on breeding as a main income source to smaller hobby breeders who occasionally breed their pedigree dogs.

Both professional and smaller breeders can produce wonderful puppies. Your choice depends largely on your priorities: some buyers seek out a professional breeder with a proven show ring record, well-documented bloodlines, and multiple generations of dogs, while others prefer a smaller breeder who raises puppies more like family pets and focuses on puppies suited for companionship rather than competition.

As you explore breeders offering litters of the same breeds, it’s critical to ask insightful questions. While visiting breeders can reveal a lot, five key questions often get overlooked but are crucial for making a responsible choice.

1. Are the Parents and Extended Bloodline Healthy?

Trusted breeders should be able to share comprehensive health information about their breeding dogs and at least one previous generation. Don’t hesitate to ask about hereditary conditions, health testing results, and request copies of this documentation. Because most pedigree breeds have breed-specific health issues, openness here is essential.

For breeds with established health testing protocols, like hip and elbow dysplasia evaluations or genetic screenings, ask to see the test results. For instance, if you’re considering an American Corgi puppy, ensure the breeder can provide proof of health clearances for typical breed concerns.

2. What Is the Breeder’s Purpose for Producing This Litter?

The reason behind breeding is a significant ethical factor. Ideal answers reflect goals like preserving or enhancing the breed, especially for rare breeds, or aiming to produce quality dogs destined for fitting families or working roles. Be cautious of breeders who breed solely for profit, for every female’s chance to have a litter, or just for the joy of puppies without clear planning or responsible intent.

Dedicated breeders thoughtfully plan litters, confirm their dogs meet breed standards, and prioritize the puppies' welfare and long-term placement.

3. What Are the Breed and Bloodline’s Specific Challenges?

Ethical breeders will openly discuss both the positives and challenges of their breed and bloodline. This includes temperament traits, activity levels, exercise needs, grooming demands, social compatibility, and any behavioral traits or potential quirks.

Learning about these aspects helps you prepare and ensures the puppy you select fits well with your lifestyle, preventing surprises after bringing the pup home.

4. How Does the Price Reflect Puppy Quality?

Prices for puppies can vary widely within the same breed or litter. Typically, show-quality puppies with full health screenings command higher prices due to the costs associated with testing and the dog's potential for conformation or breeding.

If you encounter prices well below or above the local market average, ask the breeder for an explanation. Lower prices may reflect reduced investment in health checks or breed quality, whereas higher prices should be accompanied by health guarantees, registration documentation, and quality assurances.

5. What Achievements Do Other Dogs From This Bloodline Have?

Inquire about the accomplishments and roles of dogs previously bred by this breeder. This might include their success at dog shows, working ability, temperament as family pets, and health status after sale.

A breeder who monitors and tracks the outcomes of their breeding lines generally practices responsible breeding and helps you understand what to expect from your new puppy.

By asking these essential five questions, you can make sure you partner with a breeder who values health, temperament, and ethical breeding practices above mere profit. This approach helps you find a well-bred, healthy puppy that will bring joy and companionship for years to come.