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To ensure you end up adopting a puppy that matches your expectations and is without significant health issues, it is recommended to ask your breeder to visit the place where the pup was bred and meet the parents. Keep in mind, however, that the sire is not always owned by the breeder. You will most likely meet the dam, instead.

By meeting one or both of the parents, you will be able to better assess the offspring’s appearance and size when it gets older. You will also be able to get an idea of how your chosen puppy will behave later on in life. To determine the parent’s temperament, spend some time with it. Try feeding it, petting it, or playing with it.

Some breeders may lure you into adopting a puppy because of the pedigrees of both its parents. To know if your canine comes from a line of champions, ask your seller for recent titles that either the sire or dam may have. Competitive parent breeds should be actively involved in clubs and not just be a member of the American Kennel Club.

Proper socialisation at an early age is very important if you want your puppy to grow into a well-rounded adult. This is why you should ask your breeder what experiences your chosen pup has had so far. Find out if your desired canine has been exposed enough to people and other animals so that you avoid bringing home a pet that lacks confidence and has a tendency to be socially anxious. Furthermore, ask your breeder where the puppy is more comfortable living – indoors or in a kennel.

Everybody wants a puppy that is healthy and has no significant genetic diseases. If you are buying from a reputable breeder, they should know if health tests have been performed on both the pup’s parents. They should also be able to disclose any conditions that may affect your puppy in the future. If the breed is susceptible to some type of genetic issue, the breeder should be able to advise you on what needs to be done to minimise or prevent the chances of the disease worsening.

Know if your chosen puppy is in good condition by asking your breeder if it has been declared healthy by a licensed veterinarian. Find out, as well, if your desired canine has ever been on any medications. Finally, make sure your breeder provides you with a guarantee in case your puppy shows signs of any health conditions later on. Remember, you, as a pet buyer, are protected by the Australian Consumer Law which ensures that the description of the dog you adopt matches what the breeder has stated in their advertisement.

A puppy’s nutritional needs vary from dog to dog and can often be ever-changing. When bringing home a new pet, is it suggested to ask your breeder what the puppy has been used to eating. Every time you try to switch your canine to a new food, make sure to do it gradually. Finally, try to keep its feeding schedule regulated as much as you can.

A responsible breeder will not only give you feeding tips but also provide you with a diet sheet. This way, your puppy will still be able to continue eating what it has been accustomed to for at least the next couple of days or weeks in your home. The diet sheet will also let you know how much and when to feed your new puppy.

A verified breeder knows the importance of vaccinations. Find out if your seller has taken your desired puppy to a veterinarian and what other shots your dog needs. Puppies that are six to nine weeks of age should have had at least their first set of shots done already. A second batch should have been completed by the time the puppy is around 10 to 12 weeks old to ensure it is fully protected.

If your breeder has yet to complete all the required shots, ask them to provide you with documentation that states when the next doses are due. This way, your puppy receives all the vaccinations it needs. Better yet, have a veterinarian first examine the puppy before you commit to adopting it.

Ask your breeder these two important questions:

What will happen if your puppy experiences a serious health condition because of lack of disclosure?

If by any unfortunate occurrence you can no longer take care of your puppy, will your breeder willingly take it back?

An ethical breeder makes it their priority and responsibility to look after their dog’s health and happiness, which is why they are always prepared to take their breed back for any reason. They should be willing to provide you with a contract that includes their complete contact information and a return policy. Some will even offer their buyers a replacement or refund should the puppy passes away.