FINDING A REPUTABLE BREEDER You've done your homework and determined that a particular breed suits your lifestyle and is the right dog for you. You've decided not to purchase a dog from a pet store. (Pet store dogs can have health problems - the result of unscrupulous puppy mill breeders.) You want to find a reputable breeder. But how? First, visit several breeders. Focus on those who have the puppy's parents (at least the mother) on the premises. If the parents are happy, friendly dogs, and they neither back away nor jump in your face, you're on the right track. Check the facilities and surroundings for cleanliness and make sure all the animals are well cared for. (Be very suspicious of breeders who have more dogs than they seem able to take care of properly.) Ask the breeder about specific characteristics of the breed and whether he or she has encountered any genetic problems in the bloodlines. A red flag should go up if the breeder hesitates to answer or if the response is a terse, "I've never had any problems." Any long-time breeders who say they've never had any trouble are either phenomenally lucky or hiding something. A reputable breeder will reveal inherited problems and discuss what he or she is doing to try to eliminate them. An above-board breeder will also explain the quality and cost differences between show and pet-quality puppies. (Breeders should insist that you spay or neuter "non-show" puppies.) The bottom line: reputable breeders put the welfare of their dogs first. Consequently, they don't breed more animals than they can place and their main concern is that the animal be able to lead a long, happy and healthy life. So if a breeder doesn't grill you with a lot of tough questions about your expectations and ability to care for a dog, you're probably in the wrong place. For more information on finding a reputable breeder and links to national breed clubs visit: www.westminsterkennelclub.org For the ASPCA Breed Guide on dogs visit: www.petsmart.com/ps/guides/ and cats, visit: www.petsmart.com/ps/guides/