What is the difference between a registered breeder and a puppy farmer (and how will I know)?
A registered breeder is registered with the Australian National Kennel Council and must meet certain requirements. A breeder will usually specialise in one breed and is also likely to be involved in showing that breed. A puppy farmer will not be registered with the ANKC. Many claim to be registered, but check who they are actually registered by, often it just a ‘registered’ business! The ANKC only registers ‘pure breed’ dog breeders. All designer dogs are cross breeds. A breeder will be happy for you to visit them to meet the parents and the pups at their own premises, in fact most will insist. Puppy farmers will not. If puppy farmers who meet the legal requirements of minimum standards of care will not let you see their breeding facilities – they know that you will be horrified. A breeder will know about their breed, they will be happy to answer your questions and are very likely to have plenty of their own. If you are suspicious, go home and do some research.
