What do I need to ask for? - Page 1

When searching out the right breeder, what kinds of questions should I be asking? What kind of proof should I be able to see, etc.? 

Depends on what it is that you want. Determine the qualities that are really important to you, find breeders who are like-minded, talk to them a lot, get a "feel" for them and whether you get along, and then ask those questions that pertain to your wish list. And ask for proof if you feel you need to. Are you planning on visiting or just calling around? Very different sets of questions need to be asked depending on whether you're hitting the road or the keyboard. 

Ask for references and if you can, try to go check them out.  If they are local they should have some dogs here and there that you can go see train.

I got very lucky with my timing when looking for a pup.  The breeder had two pups that hadn't gone home yet i got to look at, then a couple weeks later i was able to see the dam get worked at the club i was going to join at by a VERY good TD.  Things just fell into place, so sometimes a little luck is involved too. 

Ask what happens if things go wrong or you need to give up/replace the dog how they would handle it.  Do you get to choose the pup or will the breeder try to match you up.

And it's better to wait a few months or longer to get the right dog, rather than just get what becomes available.  Hopefully you will get the trifecta.  Wonderful breeder, wonderful owner and wonderful pup. 

Good luck!!

Hello again 50ish, Jenni78 is who I IM you about. Nadeem own's one of her GSD's as well. Pete

Definitely personal references.  Also, talk to them a great deal about their dogs. MOST things about dogs is relative. What someone calls a ___________ type dog may be what someone else calls something else entirely, etc. etc. and you need to be sure everyone is on the same page, or you could end up unhappy and it won't be anyone's fault; just a misunderstanding. For that reason, if you can ask where some previous pups are or where they train and you can see them and see if you like them, that's a HUGE bonus, imo.

I'm not big on the "paypal" buttons on websites. I don't feel that's how puppies should be sold. That's not fair to anyone, imo. All parties should be clear on expectations and as Nadeem said, the big "what if?" It's not a pleasant topic, but definitely ask "what if" something goes wrong? What is included in the guarantee (if there is a guarantee)? What, if any "red tape" do you have to get through? 

I didn't see isachev's post when I posted mine. Thank you, isachev. Nice of you. 

For me, the basics are - proof of normal hips and elbows for both parents, proof that they both have been DNA tested for DM so you know that the breeding will not produce any offspring that could be at risk for developing DM in the future. I would want to see proof the parents were both tested clear of heart and thyroid problems and that they passed some sort of temperament test and/or had earned a title or two or three.  Titles are an indication that the breeder is interested in training their dogs or having them trained before breeding them to determine if they are breed worthy. I don't know that eyes are an issue with this breed, but it would be a bonus if both parents were certified normal by CERF.  

For me, those would be the minimum I would ask for when buying a dog. There are other things to ask for based on the reason/s you are buying a dog. I personally don't place a lot of weight on personal references since breeders will normally only share positive ones with prospective buyers. I have never read a negative reference on any dog breeder's website. When you find a breeder who interests  you, try a google search to see if the kennel name has been discussed on the internet. There are a few websites that report dog scams. Rip Off reports is one. 

Good luck in finding the perfect dog for you. It's a lot of work to do it right and mistakes can be made, but it will pay off in the long run.

Know what you want first off.
Trust no one, use your own eyes and keep your own council.
Don't expect miracles or magic.
Study, learn before you leap.
Make sure you understand what your getting into and be ready to take responsibility for your actions.
A dog is an animal not a thing, it has a soul.

Trust no one, Moons? Really?

Absolutely fantastic suggestions. I am compiling a good list of questions based on your advice here. So grateful !!!

Blitzen...what does DM and CERF mean please?