There are three types of dog breeders: the mass-producing puppy mills, the "backyard" breeder and the conscientious breeder, or "hobby" breeder.

A good definition of a puppy mill is a facility that breeds dogs every time they come into season, with no regard for the betterment of the breed, just for profit. It doesn't matter if it's one dog or fifty; greed is usually the common denominator.

• These people fail to follow acceptable standards of breeding, including screening for disease and defects.
• They fail to provide proper veterinary care.
• They don't socialize the pups; there's just too many.
• They fail to provide safe housing and sanitary conditions.
• And they knowingly breed animals with hereditary and genetic defects.

There are, however, some facilities that look pleasant on the surface, with clean grounds and nice buildings. But one isn't often allowed inside to see the cramped cages, stacked one upon the other to save space. (Guess what happens to the dogs in the bottom cages?) One doesn't hear or see the misery of sick and sometimes dying animals. And the behaviors exhibited by these dogs because of their living conditions is bizarre. No! I'm not exaggerating!

The average person wouldn't purchase a pet from such a place, would he? At this time, the broker arrives on the scene. He'll buy the puppies, clean them up and sell them to your local pet shop, where the consumer sees only cute and fluff.

Now, just who IS this backyard breeder? He can, at best, be described as uninformed. At worst, he is running a small-scale puppy mill.

• He will breed his pet twice a year, starting as early as six months.
• He'll have no plans for the future of the litter and doesn't realize he could have twelve pups with no home to go to.
• He won't require spay or neuter.
• He won't ask about your plans for the pup or what your circumstances are.
• He won't inform you of any problems or defects specific to the breed because he doesn't know.
• And, he won't agree to take the dog back if there are any problems; he'll refer the buyer to a shelter.
• The breeder will jump at the chance to sell the whole litter to anyone who wishes, with no questions asked. Guess where the puppies will go?
• Last, but not least, this person will breed so little Johnny can witness the "miracle of birth."

My answer to someone who is unfortunate enough to voice this last reason to me is, "Go ahead and have your puppies; everybody gather 'round while your pet is whelping to add to her stress. Then continue little Johnny's education further by visiting the local shelter on euthanasia day and watch what a 'miracle' THAT is!"

Now, we will discuss the conscientious breeder. At most, they own no more than two breeds and produce puppies solely for the betterment of the specific breed. Their prices are high but they make no profit and their love for the animals is unconditional.

They will know everything there is to know about their breed; health problems, genetic and hereditary defects, temperament, coat and show conformation. These people will know each pup intimately before it leaves them. And they will be on hand to help in any way for the life of the dog. If, for any reason, the buyer has to give up the dog, the breeder will take the animal back, whether it's two months or twenty years old.

The reputable breeder does not breed any animal until it undergoes an extensive health screening, which doesn't take place until the dog is about two years old. Hence, one of the reasons they don't make much profit, if any. One may wait a long time for one of these pups, as the breeder won't consider producing until there is a waiting list.

Most of these breeders are involved in the show circuit. They travel thousands of miles each year to enter their bitch or dog in a prestigious show. They are members of the breed's parent club and at least one local club. Many are involved in the breed's rescue efforts and work long and hard for the individuals of their chosen breed.

And finally, when you've found your breeder of choice, be prepared to ask intelligent questions about the breed, the owners and any other relevant issue. You will probably be required to sign a contract that states you will approve their first right of refusal, which means they will take the dog back under any circumstances. You must agree to spay/neuter if applicable. They will also provide a guarantee of the dog. They will want to know how and where the pup will live, how it will be handled and treated, and many other aspects of your intentions regarding the dog. Offering references will show that you have serious intentions. You are acquiring new friends as well as a new pet.

MY intention, dear readers, is to impress upon you the importance of choosing a reputable breeder or rescue group to deal with when thinking about acquiring a family pet. Between eight and ten million cats and dogs are the victims of euthanasia annually in our nation's shelters. Please help us lower those numbers.

If, after reading all the information, you STILL want to breed the family pet, go to this site and play the 'Virtual Breeding Game.'Click here! It's a real eye-opener!

Thanks Inge

A Buyer's Guide