Checklist to Evaluate Breeders

How to Separate a Serious Dog Breeder from the Rest of the Pack:

Congratulations!  You have decided to add a new member to your family!  After you have done your homework and have chosen a breed that will blend with your family,  you can use this checklist to guide your dog breeder evaluation.

Don't give in to impulse buying!  I know all puppies are cute and cuddly.  Stick with the breed that fits into your family's lifestyle. And waiting for a dog from a breeder you are comfortable with will ensure a good fit, and a transition into your family.

The Basics:

Before you answer that ad for "puppies for sale", learn the correct answers for your breed so you can ask the following questions of a breeder.

Q: What size (height and weight) is average for this breed?

Q: How often does this breed need to be brushed or combed?

Q: Does this breed require professional grooming?

Q: How much exercise does this breed need?

Q: What are the genetic diseases that this breed may have?

Q: Have the appropriate tests been performed to avoid those?

Confirm that all the Following are True:

* Puppies for sale are born on the premises and not shipped in.

* Breeders don't sell pups to wholesalers or retail shops.

* Dog set up is clean and well kept.

* Puppies must be at least 8 weeks old before being placed.

* Breeder volunteers info on health testing of parents.

* Puppies for sale have been socialized.

* Breeder asks if you plan to spay or neuter the pup.

* Breeder is available as a resource for advice for your dogs life.

* Breeder promises to take the dog (not return your money)

  if you can't keep it, for the life of the dog.

* Breeder provides a contract for your review.

* Breeder raises no more than 3/4 different breeds.

* Breeders primary concern is to find a good home for the pup.

* Breeders ask you questions about yourself and your family.

* Breeders ask about your lifestyle, and your experience.

* Breeder was happy to answer your questions.

* Breeder made you feel comfortable and confident.

What You Should get with your Puppy:

A properly signed Registration Certificate.

Registration materials may be withheld if a written statement is provided (e.g. until the time of spaying or neutering).

A three-generation pedigree.

Health records including diet, shots, worming and guarantee.

Time frame during which the puppy or dog may be examined by a licensed veterinarian , at the buyers expense, and upon written recommendation of the vet for specific reasons, the pup may be returned to the seller for a full refund.

Thornapple Spinone Code of Ethics

We will provide information on the characteristics of the Spinone to interested individuals.

We will maintain a safe, clean, and sanitary home for all our dogs (and the puppies when available.)

We will breed only for the purpose of improving the quality of the breed.  We will not engage in cross-breeding.  We will conscientiously plan each litter of pups for sale.  We have selected our stud dog and bitch based on pedigree, confirmation, and especially temperament.

We will be knowledgeable about inherited health problems and do the appropriate health clearances on all breeding dogs.  Copies of these health clearances will be available to buyers of the pups.

We will not knowingly misrepresent the characteristics of the breed, nor falsely advertise, or mislead any person regarding the performance of any pup.

We will not breed any male or female until they are both physically and mentally mature, and we will not continue to breed any male or female beyond an appropriate age for the breed.

We will register each litter with the AKC, and have registration papers available for each pup.

We will refrain from releasing any puppy until it is at least 8 weeks old.

We WILL SHOW DISCRIMINATION in the sale of our pups and be concerned with the type of homes in which our pups are placed. We will make the buyers aware of their responsibilities as dog owners. We will not donate pups to commercial dog wholesalers, dealers, brokers, retailers, pet shops or any other person or organization, for resale or "give-away" to the public.  We will not supply pups for charity raffles or auctions. We will not supply pups to be trained for dog fighting.

At the time of sale, we will provide the buyer with: A. a proper Registration Certificate,  B. a three generation pedigree,  C. the health records including diet, shots, worming and health guarantee, and D. basic diet and care information.

We will be available for questions for the life of the dog,  and request updates and pictures as the pup matures.