CobberConnect

Anyone can become a dog breeder, so it’s important that you choose one that:

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1. Breeds healthy puppies with no genetic diseases.

2. Keeps their puppies and breeding dogs in a clean and comfortable environment that adheres to the standards set out by your state’s legislation.

3. Treats their dogs well.

4. Doesn’t overbreed their female dogs.

 

Here’s how to make sure you choose an ethical dog breeder.

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Ask lots of questions about your future puppy’s parents, genetic tests (especially hip scores), DNA tests, temperament, expected size etc

 

Always make sure you can visit (or be given a virtual tour of) the place where the puppies are living to make sure you are buying from a responsible breeder. This way, you can see if your future puppy is growing up in a happy and healthy environment, and you are not buying from a puppy farm. Most responsible breeders will be happy to invite you to their home or chat to you on Facetime, but if a breeder refuses or makes excuses, it is a red flag.

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Get veterinary documents when you collect your puppy at around 8 - 10 weeks old, they should have:

• received their first vaccination and veterinary check up (with the breeders vet),

• have a microchip,

• had their first parasite prevention treatment.

 

The breeder should have these documented and provide this information to you so you can take them to your own vet.

 

You might also ask to see the consultation notes to ensure the puppy you are purchasing is healthy. Your puppy should come with an identification number. From 1 July 2019, anyone who either breeds animals for sale or passes on ownership of a dog either by selling or free exchange, needs to register with the pet exchange and acquire a source number. Your breeder should also provide you with a change of ownership form so all microchip details are transferred into your name, in case your puppy ever goes missing.

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Ask for pedigree papers.

A pedigree is essentially a birth certificate for your dog showing the 3-generation family tree and also proves that your dog is in fact a purebred. They should also have accreditation showing that they are a part of the Master Dog Breeder's and Associates.

 

Check the following health checks have been conducted on the breeding parents.

The MBDA (Master Dog Breeder's and Associates) states the following:

 

Health screening for this breed. 

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At least one parent should be cleared by DNA testing or by parentage for the following disorders:

• PRAprcd (Mandatory from June 2018)

• Degenerative Myelopathy (Mandatory from June 2018)

• Exercise Induced Collapse (Mandatory from June 2018)

• Microphthalmia, Anophthalmia & Coloboma (Wheaten Terrier Type) ( Mandatory from January 2022)

 

Highly Recommended

1. Hip and Elbow X ray, - (Even though tests won't guarantee your dog will not have hip or elbow problems, checking for abnormalities in the breeding parents is the first line of defence in minimising the possibilities. Check that your breeder carries out these tests.)

2. Heart and Eyes Cleared.

 

Recommended

Copper Toxicosis

• Merle trait

• Shedding trait

• Curly coat trait

• Long haired trait

• Improper Coat Trait"

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Note: There are Cobberdog breeders who go over and above the minimum required testing. Ask around. Sometimes it's worth the wait.

 

More important things to consider before buying from a breeder

Some breeders will sell puppies with ‘breeders terms’. This can include: - A condition that you MUST desex your dog and not use it for breeding. - A condition that they are allowed to show the dog when grown. - A condition that they are allowed to breed from the dog when grown. - A condition that you must return the dog to them if you have to give it up.

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It is up to you to decide if you are willing to agree to these conditions upon buying a puppy. Also, breeders should have a ‘cooling-off period’ which allows you to bring the puppy back and receive a refund if there is an issue with the puppy. This is why we recommend bringing your puppy to see a vet as soon as you bring them home so they can make sure they are a healthy and happy animal."

 

Thanks to

Doncaster Veterinary Hospital for contributions to the article above.