What health tests do you perform?

Answer should be hips, elbows, eyes, knees (patellas) and heart. Parents should be PHPT negative.

Ask to see results or for a CHIC number.

(Results are public and posted online at www.ofa.org - ask to see them!)

Just a 'bill of health', DNA test or vet check from a regular vet is absolutely insufficient!

How do you socialize your puppies?

Puppies should (ideally) be raised in a home environment, but a good breeder will ensure puppies have had regular handling, and exposure to lots of sights, sounds and smells, new experiences, and children.

Are the parents AKC champions?

Dogs that have competed and achieved their AKC championship are recognised to meet a certain quality benchmark.

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It is not enough to have 'champion bloodlines'; the sire and dam should ideally be champions before breeding to ensure passing on maximum breed type and temperament.

Do you belong to any Keeshond Clubs?

A reputable breeder will be actively involved in the breed and be a member of either a local or national breed club, and have a Code of Ethics to adhere to when breeding a litter.

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Clubs advocate for continuing support and education, and work with breeders to share information, advice and advances in health.

Can I see a copy of your contract? How much do the puppies cost?

A breeder should be able to provide a copy of the contract outlining any spay/neuter requirements, expectations of ownership and what happens to the puppy in the event that the dog can no longer be cared for.

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Cost is variable amongst breeders but you can expect to budget $2500-$3500 for your new puppy. Do not pay more for 'rare' colors. Next day puppy websites often list puppies as low as $600 or as high as $5000, price does not necessarily determine breeder or puppy quality.

When can I get my puppy? Can I choose it?

Puppies should never leave their dam before 8 weeks, but some breeders choose to hold on to puppies until 10-12 weeks if trying to determine a show prospect.

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Most reputable breeders will select a puppy for the new owners based on what the new owners are looking to do or their lifestyle  - a performance minded, busy puppy may not be a suitable fit for a working family for example.

Do both the parents live with you?

This seems to be a common question but it is not necessary to have both parents living with the breeder.

The breeder should have selected the sire based on pedigree compatibility, health, type and temperament and sometimes the best fit can be across the country from the dam.

Finally....

A good breeder should ask YOU as many questions or more than you ask them!

Ethical breeders are passionate about their puppies and want to ensure they live happily for their lifetime and that they are a good fit for their new home.

Expect to be asked a lot of questions about your work, lifestyle and home.

A poor quality breeder just wants to sell the puppy.