There are a few routes to pet ownership. You can visit your local animal shelter, go to a pet store or you might look for a private sale from a breeder you might find online for example. When buying from a private breeder you need to be very careful that they are of a high quality. At the end of the day, you aren’t buying a commodity, you’re buying a living and breathing thing, a member of the family.
A dog is extremely responsive to their environment. Not only should you be in a good position to provide your new pet with a hospitable environment, but you also need to think carefully about the environment from which you’re buying a new puppy. Is it a clean and healthy environment?
A puppy’s condition is inextricably linked to the condition and well being of their mother. When you’re buying from a breeder you should ask to see the mother and certainly enquire whether the parents are on the premises. If not then this might point towards a less high quality and even neglectful breeder. Especially in the first few years of a dog’s life the parent’s influence is very important.
Has the puppy been treated by a vet? What about vaccinations and worming. Again you need to ask a breeder about these things. You should also inquire about any possible genetic conditions that your dog might have inherited.Finally, will the breeder take the dog back if there’s a problem in the immediate future?
