Finding a Reliable, Safe Dog Breeder

These days it seems that no one, nor any "certifications" can be trusted. We have to be looking out for the welfare of our animals at every turn.

Recently, a Los Angeles pet store, Pets of Bel Air, was accused by the Humane Society of purchasing its "not so cheap" puppies from puppy mills. The store promptly posted a statement on its website explaining that not only were its dogs were purchased from pet breeders approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, but also that it relied on the USDA to inspect the breeders and their premises.

Kim Campbell Thornton, columnist of the Creature Comforts on MSNBC.com dug a little deeper and discovered USDA breeders licenses really don't carry much weight. USDA minimum standards for housing and exercise are essentially bare bones.

Read more in her column on this topic, or click on "Continue reading" below for her "10 Signs of a Good Pet Breeder".

1. Fully answers questions about the breed, including the downside of living with it

2. Is honest about the breed’s potential health problems, including any seen in his or her own dogs

3. Provides copies of health certifications performed by specialists on both parents of the puppies

4. Raises puppies in the home, not in pens in the backyard, and doesn’t live in filthy surroundings

5. Has puppies that are friendly and healthy, with bright eyes, shiny coats and no discharge from eyes or nose

6. Doesn’t breed more than one or two litters per year and limits each female to no more than three litters in a lifetime

7. Helps you choose the right puppy for your personality and lifestyle

8. Helps you find another breeder if he or she doesn’t have what you’re looking for

9. Has a sales contract that includes a minimum one-year health guarantee against life-threatening or crippling conditions caused by heritable defects

10. Willing to take the dog back at any time in its life if you’re unable to keep it

I hope that this is helpful to those of you who cherish your favorite breed.

Colleen