Is the puppy being fed an appropriate diet of nutritious food?
Ask to see what the breeder is feeding the dogs. Most good breeders will give you a few days’ supply of dog food for you to take home and help your puppy’s digestive system adapt. • ALWAYS ask to see the dam (mother). If the dog you are obtaining is eight weeks old or younger, you should still see evidence that the mother was lactating (enlarged mammary glands). Beware – many backyard breeders will show you a pretty female dog and say it’s the dam, even though the dog has never had a litter. Responsible, reputable breeders are knowledgeable and willing to help educate you about training your puppy, from housebreaking to behavior problems. Responsible breeders will also interview prospective clients and ask to meet the whole family. They want to make sure the temperament of the pups matches the personality and lifestyle of the family. They want to make sure this is a lifelong match. Responsible breeders also encourage or require clients to spay or neuter their pups. The dogs on their pr
