Shar
On Mon, 18 Aug 2003 11:22:26 -0700 (PDT) Sharon Montville
<[EMAIL PROTECTED]> writes:
> Just a reminder, especially for people looking on the
> internet to find a puppy...
>
> Websites of responsible breeders generally include
> registered names, and often the clearances, of their
> dogs. When the clearances are not included, the
> registered names can be used to check. These days,
> www.offa.org is the easiest site to check for
> orthopedic clearances (since the GDC data was merged
> with OFA data).
>
> Cute photos alone, do not indicate a good breeder.
> Cute photos are a sales gimmick. In many cases, cute
> photos sell puppies. But the careful, informed buyer
> knows to look for a breeder who has in-depth pedigree
> background on the sire and dam of the litter - one who
> can prove much of this screening has been done, via
> formal registries (NOT the vet looked at the x-rays
> and said they were fine).
Sharon
Great info on finding a puppy via the internet. I have found some
generalized rules when looking at websites. Please be aware not all of
these rules apply but overall they are something to consider. Many
serious hobby breeders are very proud of the pedigrees behind the dogs
they've bred and as you stated will give full registered names of their
dogs and many times some pedigree information.
Commercial and backyard breeders tend to be very paranoid. They think if
they give their names and contact information (other than a hotmail
account) they will be harrassed by animal rights extremists. I have found
that in the many years since I've had a site on the internet regarding my
dogs I have not been harrassed. If someone was trying to determine if I
was a puppy mill or BYB I like to think I passed the test and have never
been bothered again. Questionable breeders will not let you come to their
home to visit. Again they are concerned you are a "spy" for the animal
rights folks. Some websites will be very upfront about their USDA status
and often you will see these folks with multiple breeds. More than a
couple of breeds may raise some questions.
The commercial website usually gives minimal information, often accepts
credit cards and is willing to ship anywhere. Many times these sites are
cute with lots of pictures of dogs having a good time but you will see a
lack of achievments (no titles in conformation or working activities) or
you will seee that one champion that started their breeding program a
zillion years ago. I've never understood how breeders can bemoan the fact
that they don't have time to show their dogs but they do have time to
breed them. Breeding and raising a litter IMO is no easy job! It takes
8wks!
I love internet shopping but be careful when using it to buy a puppy.
Like buying from the newspaper screening breeders is very very important
Susan Ablon
Gweebarra BMD
Balch Springs, Tx
http://www.pageweb.com/gwebara
