Choosing A Breeder

Any reputable breeder is willing to take a dog back at any point in the dog's lifetime.  However, not all dogs come from reputable breeders. There are several basic sources for adopting a dog:

• Reputable breeders:
  -Guarantees the puppies & dogs and will support the new owners with information and advice for the life of the dog. Will also take back a dog if the situation calls for it.
  -Puppies are generally well socialized and healthy.  A visit to the vet is always recommended even if the pup has already been to the vet.  Shots are generally up to date and worming is done at a young age. Most breeders will have all dew claws removed, although some will leave the front ones on.
  -Always tries to educate new families about the breed and training.
  -Usually at least tries to have all their breeding stock tested for inherited diseases & disorders.
  -Generally are somewhat fussy about who adopts their puppies, seldom is first-come gets the puppy.  Interviews and references are common, almost like getting a job!

• Backyard Breeders:
  -Well-meaning people who bred their pet.. Don't know much about what they are doing, seldom (if ever) do any genetic testing.  No guarantees with the puppies/dogs, and won't take one back if the new owners can't keep it.
  -Usually haven't had the pups vet checked, dew claws are seldom removed, shots & worming generally haven't been done.
  -Generally don't care who gets the puppies, if someone has the money, they go home with the puppy.

• Pet Stores
  -Speaks for itself.  Sale is final, tends to be overpriced, and the puppy/dog generally came from a "Puppy Mill."  These dogs tend to have many problems ranging from questionable temperaments to severe genetic diseases/disorders.
  -No screening of homes, put down your money, get the puppy.
  -No education or support and generally very limited guarantees (usually a week or so, if any)

• Puppy Mills
  -BAD SITUATION!  Dogs are raised in deplorable conditions.  Little or no socialization.  These dogs tend to have many problems ranging from questionable temperaments to severe genetic diseases/disorders.
  -Puppy Mills are first and foremost in breeding for the money, so anything that would cut into their "profit margin" has not been done - Shots, worming, screening for inheritable diseases/disorders, etc....   

• There is excellent information for choosing a breeder at:

The Harrisburg Kennel Club, Inc. website. Harrisburg Kennel Club Breeder Page  

The American Shetland Sheepdog Association site: http://www.assa.org.

  Also, you may contact our club members on our "Members" page.  

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