So you’ve decided you want a puppy — a purebred. You’ve done all your homework, narrowed down the breed you want, and found the finances, time and energy to care for one. Next on the list is to find a quality breeder and eventually, your puppy.

But consider yourself warned — purchasing a puppy from any old breeder can be fraught with risks.

As in any business, some breeders are genuine. These breeders care deeply for their animals and the health of the breed as a whole, and their reputation is important to them. Others, known as backyard breeders, know little about improving the breed and are primarily interested in making a fast buck. It is now up to you to find a honest and reliable breeder, and taking any shortcuts here will cost you dearly — though sometimes, not until years down the road.

Do some research before you contact any breeders. A good place to start is by contacting the kennel club of the breeds you’re interested in, and requesting a list of breeders. The Internet can also be a good source to find and research breeding kennels. If you have friends who have dogs of that breed, ask them where they purchased from and if they’re happy with their chosen dog.

Dog shows are another terrific place to meet breeders and see their animals, both in a show environment and in kennels before and after the show. Reputable breeders show their dogs often to ensure their conformation and temperaments are correct, while backyard breeders typically stay far away. Just remember this is a busy time for the breeder, and they may not have a lot of time to chat. Get their contact information, check out their animals and call them later when things settle down.

Before you set out to choose a puppy, make a preliminary trip to the breeder’s. Your mission — to see how well the animals are cared for. As tempting as it might be to hold out against plump wriggling bodies and soft puppy breath, don’t just buy the first puppy you see.

A good breeder will want to make sure you’re a suitable owner just as badly as you’ll want to ensure they breed quality animals. Look for clean facilities with healthy, clean dogs that are alert, curious, and hopefully parasite-free. The dogs should behave in a manner you’d want for your future dog. For example, if most of the dogs appear to be timid and afraid, it’s a safe bet your pup will be similar.

When you’re there to scope out the facilities, ask the breeder:

- How long have they been breeding dogs?
- What’s the pedigree of the animal you’re considering purchasing, and have their parents placed in competitions?
- Are both parents at the kennel?
- Are there veterinary certificates available for both parents and offspring?
- What screening has been done for the common health issues affecting that the particular breed (there will always be issues)?
- What guarantees will they offer if the pup proves to have any major health issues within a short time of purchase?

The breeder should also ask you a number of questions in return:

- Do you have a house/yard suitable for the animal? Fencing?
- Will the animal stay inside, or be chained outdoors?
- Do you have the time to care for it?
- Are you fully aware of what is required to care for the animal?
- Are you able to handle basic dog training and deal with common behavioral issues?
- Will the dog be a pet, or do you plan to breed it or show it?
- Do you have children, and what are their ages?

With a reputable breeder, you may be questioned so closely that you feel a little “put on the spot.” This is a great sign! Breeders are well within their rights to refuse to sell a pup to anyone they feel might make a less-than-ideal owner to one of their dogs.

Now that you’ve found a good breeder, and the breeder’s found you to be a good owner, it’s time to find the perfect pup — and then for both parties to sign a sales agreement outlining the obligations of both purchaser and seller.

At this point, the breeder will probably offer you advice on feeding, grooming, health care and equipment you may need as well as a schedule for all necessary immunizations and offer you the opportunity to call with any questions down the road.

A reputable breeder will also ensure you don’t take your puppy home too early, so it can enjoy its share of early socialization with its siblings. A puppy removed from its litter too early may fear other dogs for the rest of its life. While six weeks is the time when many puppies are taken to new homes, many breeders prefer to keep the pup until they’re around nine weeks old — a great idea for all concerned that won’t interfere with (and will probably improve) your new puppy’s bond with you.

Once you’ve collected your puppy, be sure to keep in touch with the breeder as they will be a fountain of knowledge for you regarding your new dog, and usually love to keep tabs on their animals.

If you do all your homework and purchase from a reputable breeder, you’ll have a healthy dog with a sweet temperament that will be a wonderful addition to your family for the next 12 to 15 years. Enjoy!