Meet the breeder, near or far, and meet both parents when buying a puppy.

Responsible breeder guidelines:
The 8 canine C's
1. Cleanliness of facility

2. Caring properly for puppies + parents (socializing, vet testing for hereditary health problems)

3. Careful attention to the mother and father. Their temperaments will affect their pups.

4. Concern for who is buying their pups.

5. Customer service: Available to meet on-site, discusses breed characteristics

6. Commitment for breed's intended use

7. Community activity in dog world-show titles, temperament awards (very important), conformation titles (important for preserving breed integrity)

8. Conscience for appreciating the responsibility of bringing another puppy into the world.

Irresponsible breeder red flags:
1. Dirty facilities

2. Little or no attention to care of puppies and parents (Little/no socializing or vet tests)

3. Constantly over breeding the mother, e.g., every heat cycle

4. Unconcerned with who is buying their puppies.

5. Little idea of breed's characteristics

6. "AKC" certified is only selling point.

7. Breeds mixed breed puppies.

Read what the AKC says about "AKC Papers" According to the AKC website, "There is a widely held belief that "AKC" or "AKC papers" and quality are one and the same. This is not the case. AKC is a registry body. A registration certificate identifies the dog as the offspring of a known sire and dam born on a known date. It in no way indicates the quality or state of health of the dog. Many people breed their dogs with no concern for the qualitative demands of the standard. When this occurs repeatedly over several generations, the animals, while still purebred, can be of extremely low quality."

Responsible breeders are dedicated to their breed, breed selectively regarding health and temperament and meet all potential buyers. RESPONSIBLE BREEDERS ARE THE BACKBONE OF THEIR BREED. MEET THE BREEDER.