Sure, the pup you’ve got your eye on is “registered,” but are all dog registries equal? Here’s what you need to know.

You don’t need a degree in genetics, or even a college course, to understand the basics of health testing in dogs.

There are many myths that abound in the dog world. Unfortunately, each allows unscrupulous breeders to take advantage of eager, prospective puppy buyers.

As many as 25 percent of all purebred pups suffer from genetic difficulties because of bad breeding. And as knowledgeable as you think you are about buying a dog, you could come across one of these poor pups and not even know it.

Ever purchased a car that turned out to be a lemon? Facing problem after problem robs you of the pleasure of enjoying your new car. Unfortunately, some dogs are “lemons,” too — a sad and preventable state usually caused by poor breeding practices.

To be a dog breeder, all you need to do is own an un-neutered female dog or two. In most states, you do not need to even register your kennel if you only have two or three adult dogs. But being a good dog breeder is more complicated.

Consider yourself warned — purchasing a puppy from any old breeder can be fraught with risks. Taking any shortcuts can cost you dearly — though sometimes, not until years down the road.