We've used a breeder and I'd do it again, if I was looking for a specific dog. My husband had a very set list of things he wanted in a dog when he was looking for a husky--Muskwa was that dog.

My theory on a reputable breeder is:

Both parents have full health certifications--hips, eyes, and any conditions that the breed is predisposed to. Health guarentee on any puppies.

Not breeding for specifics--like a husky breeder trying for only blue eyes. That to me is a red flag--what happens to the brown eyed pups?

No more than one or two litters a year.

Breeder can provide rationale for why they crossed particular males and females.

Breeding dogs are champions or excel at what the breed is designed for. Muskwa doesn't come from a show line of huskies, but he does come from a competitive racing line.

Careful screening of potential owners.

Follow-up on those owners. Muskwa's breeder still contacts us a couple times a year to check up on him.

Return policy. It's in our contract for Muskwa that at any time if we can't care for him, he is returned to his breeder. A good breeder is responsible for life for the pups they brought into the world.

Kennels are clean and well maintained.

Dogs' temperments are appropriate for the breed.

Altering contract for those pups sold as pet quality or who clearly don't meet the breed standard.

Breeding to the breed standard--No Giant Alaskan Malamute or Wooly Huskies.

Kennel is open to visitors--if not, I suspect they have something to hide. I want to see where my puppy lives.

That's all I can think of for now.

PS: I only used huskies and mals as examples since those are the breeds I know best.