FAQ

Or other information you did not realize you needed to think about

If you do not find an answer to your question here, contact us at 815-597-4601 or meg@snowood.net.

Why Buy a Purebred Dog?

Purebred vs. Mixed Breed

Dog Food

Dog Training

Should I Spay or neuter my dog?

Puppy Buyer Etiquette

Why buy from a breeder?

1. THEY SPECIALIZE IN THEIR CHOSEN BREED

They know the Standard, the characteristics and temperament of that breed. Their knowledge and experience is an important asset to you.

2. THEY KNOW THEIR DOGS.

They handle and care for them every day and can tell you about them.

3. THEY CAN HELP YOU "AFTER THE SALE"

The breeder can help you with problems in training and care of your puppy. They can be your advisor and can direct you to other important breed-specific resources.

4. IF PROBLEMS DEVELOP, YOU CAN GIVE THEM A CALL FOR ADVICE

They can give you written instructions on feeding and other helpful information for the early training and care of your new puppy. This help is available not just on the first day you take your new puppy home but also throughout the dog's life.

5. THE BREEDER CAN HELP YOU REGISTER YOUR ELIGIBLE PUPPY WITH THE AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB.

When you buy a puppy with registration paperwork from the American Kennel Club, you can register that puppy with the AKC. You may have bought a puppy with "limited registration" paperwork or with "full registration" paperwork. In either case, your breeder can explain the importance of paperwork, how to register with the AKC, and what the paperwork means for you.

6. YOUR PUPPY WILL BE SOCIALIZED.

Responsible breeders raise only a limited number of puppies. They will give them special handling that is needed during that critical stage in their development to help the puppies adapt and adjust to living with humans. A socialized puppy makes a happy, tractable, obedient dog, one you are proud to own.

Responsible, dedicated breeders give the time and work necessary to "socialize” their puppies. In most cases, dogs socialized in this way are superior for obedience training, field work, as well as a family pet.

Types of Breeders

Questions to ask your breeder:

What health tests have been done on BOTH parents of the litter?

What temperament testing and socialization has been done?

What does the breeder feel are the strengths and weaknesses in the breed and the breeder's program?

What goals does the breeder have with the breeding program and how does the breeder go about to achieve this?

Can you see the pedigrees of both sire and dam? Can you see at least the dam?

What type of contract does the breeder have for pet or show puppies (it should include a spay/neuter agreement and health guarantee)

What inoculations have been given?

Can you have your own vet examine the puppy?

Can you get references of previous puppy buyers?

Are you active in any breed clubs (all breed or ideally breed specialty)?

What does the breeder feed the puppies?

What is the price of the puppies?

The Breeder should also ask you questions ... They may get the information while they talk to you about their Breed.