Homestead Poodles is only one of a great many dog breeders in Maryland. In addition to professional and “backyard” breeders, there are also pet stores and, regrettable, puppy mills. With all these choices before you, how can you be certain that you’re dealing with a reputable and ethical breeder?
The word “reputable” leads you directly to your first step. You should be able to obtain references from owners of puppies that were bred by the breeder you’re reviewing. You should also be given access to the breeder’s vet. There is no substitute for a good reputation.
An ethical breeder should be willing to show you the premises where the puppies are raised and to introduce you to a puppy’s parents. Knowledgeable breeders will be able to answer all your questions fully and truthfully, and will not hesitate to say if they feel a particular puppy or breed is not the best choice for you. You will never be subjected to any “hard sell” from a good breeder.
A responsible breeder guarantees the health of your puppy, and not just for a few days. All of our breeding dogs have been Optigen tested for PRA-PRCD, and we have one of the best guarantees. Most breeders only offer to take a puppy back if something is wrong with it and will do nothing more. We understand that you have already bonded with your puppy, and making an exchange isn’t going to be satisfying. Therefore, our guarantee provides the option, after consultation, of paying half the cost of surgery to repair any medical problems or reimbursing you half the purchase price of the dog which ever is the lesser.
A WORD ABOUT PET SHOPS AND PUPPY MILLS
Many people are familiar with the dreadful and inhumane conditions to be found at puppy mills. It may seem like a good idea to buy a puppy there in an effort to rescue it. Similarly, you may feel sorry for a puppy in a pet store, kept in a small cage. Buying from these outlets, however, only keeps the puppy mills in business, and actually works against solving the problem. Please, buy your puppy from a reputable breeder, and don’t support puppy mills and the pet stores that buy from them.