Finding reputable dog breeders

Anyone who wants to find a reputable dog breeder can check out the AKC's breeder referral search online at www.akc.org/breederinfo or visit the next local AKC sanctioned dog show. Reputable dog breeders are members of local and national kennel clubs and proudly show their animals in competition shows judging the conformation and temperament of their breed. Reputable breeders who are member breeders of AKC kennel clubs breed one or two breeds and don't have more than two litters a year.

Irresponsible breeders include puppy mills, backyard breeders and some pet owners. A sole proprietor and even a family owned business is a puppy mill if it operates a commercial kennel subjected to USDA and AKC inspections. The USDA is mandated to inspect all largescale commercial breeding kennels. Because there are only a handful of USDA inspectors, timely reinspection of code violators cannot be performed, and they can continue to operate in deplorable conditions, thereby minimizing costs while earning high-margin profits.

The AKC only inspects breeders who churn out excessively high numbers of litters on an annual basis (seven or more litters per year), or 25 or more registration transactions per year. A puppy's AKC papers only certify that the puppy is a purebred--it is not a warranty of quality. High-volume breeders are a red flag to the AKC, warranting inspections to ensure purebred bloodlines.

Just because a puppy has AKC papers does not mean that the puppy was bred by an AKC member breeder according to AKC guidelines and a club's code of ethics.

Puppy buyers should also be aware of a health guarantee that doesn't warrant a breeding program that screens out congenital and hereditary defects. These puppies can have adverse health conditions causing avoidable suffering, which may warrant exorbitant vet bills for treatment.
Rebecca Arvizu
Agoura Hills