Are all dog breeders puppy mills?
No. There are responsible breeders who do not breed for profit and will not sell to just anyone who shows up with the money. A responsible breeder keeps their breeder dogs in the home as part of the family – not outside in a cage or kennel. Some are kept as family pets, others as show dogs or working dogs, but are always considered a member of the family. They typically specialize in one or two breeds and are very knowledgeable of breed standards. A good breeder will show you where the dogs spend their time, allow you to meet and/or spend time with the puppy’s parents, have a strong relationship with a local veterinarian and will provide all lineage and veterinary records. They are tested for potential hereditary problems and given appropriate vaccinations. Unlike commercial breeders, the responsible breeder will want to make sure you are able to provide a loving forever home before you are allowed to purchase one of their puppies. They will sell directly to private owners – never to a
