Now that nearly 90 percent of stores that sold puppies and kittens as pets are shut down, where do you think the backyard breeders, puppy mills and brokers go to sell their “merchandise”… on a Buy & Sell website. Also, please do not be fooled into buying pugs that are of non-recognized colors (pugs are fawn and black only) and being referred to as “rare.” These are a mixed breed. There is no Blue, Merle, Black and tan, White, or what is being referred to as “Panda” (black & white). Be careful not to send money by etransfer to individuals before you have had a chance to see the puppy in person and/or ask for a veterinarian reference from a legitimate clinic on the individual selling the puppy.
Purchasing sight unseen!
I wonder how many people buy a home, a car, or even a major appliance sight unseen or just by looking at an online ad. Remember, websites like Kijiji make their money from sales; they don’t check the claims of the seller or the puppy itself. It’s all left up to the individual. Unfortunately, if you buy without doing any research, you probably won’t get what you paid for. You may very well get a sick puppy, or one that will develop serious health problems.
Questions to ask a breeder
Below are just some of the questions you should be thinking about asking a breeder before making the commitment to a new family member.
- Have the puppy/ dog parents been health checked?
- How many dogs do you own and how often do you breed the females?
- What Health testing has been done on the parents and litter?
- How old are they before leaving for their new home?
- What vaccinations will the puppy have? Here is a protocol by Dr. Jean Dodds to peruse.
- Can I come and meet the parents and you at your home?
- What activities do you do with your dogs i.e. conformation, therapy work, obedience etc.
- What does your contract guarantee and for how long?
- Will the breeder be there for the lifetime of the puppy/ dog and will they take the dog back should the situation arise?
What a breeder wants from you!
A dedicated breeder will want the best possible permanent home for their puppy/ dog. They want to produce the best possible health and temperament after all they are living with the generations as well and it is a source of pride that is a reflection on them and their reputation. Breeders love to talk Pug!!! Education is the key that reputable breeders are willing too freely discuss to new puppy/ dog owners, outlining the potential health and training concerns that may arise. They want to be kept up-to-date on the puppy/ dog throughout it’s lifetime. They will provide you with CKC registration papers within 6 months from the time of sale at NO extra charge to you. You will want to go and see the parents and build a relationship with the breeder who has the knowledge and passion for producing a happy healthy Pug!