Educational Information
Reputable versus Puppymill Breeders

It is important that every new dog owner knows the difference between reputable versus puppy mill breeders. The risk of purchasing a dog from a puppy mill breeder is that you may end up with a pup who has significant health problems or socialization problems (caused by puppies removed from their mothers at too young an age.) Here are some ways to distinguish reputable breeders from breeders who may not have the best interest of you or the pup you are contemplating buying in mind.

Reputable Breeders	Puppymill Breeders
Interviews or screens purchaser. Only sell to qualified buyers.	Will sell to anyone. Little or no screening. Primary motivation is profit.
Will be happy to have you visit their kennel/home. Kennel will be clean and well kept.	Will be reluctant to show you kennel area. Kennel area may be unclean, or unhealthy. Living conditions may be substandard.
Will not mind showing you the parents of the newborn litter.	Will be reluctant to show you litter’s parents and their living conditions.
Never sell dogs at a premature age. Ensure pups are properly socialized.	May sell dogs before 8-10 weeks of age. Pups may not be properly socialized.
Can provide health certifications (CERF, OFA), for the parents of the newborn litter ruling out health problems.	Health records (CERF, OFA), for the parents of the newborn litter are nonexistent, bogus, or inadequate.
Never knowingly breed or sell dogs with health problems. Dogs are checked by vets.	May sell dogs with a variety of health problems. Dogs may not be current with vaccines, or vet check ups.
Will provide written health guarantee for puppies.	Health guarantees may be nonexistent or lacking.
Make a long term commitment to help or mentor you. Will provide pedigree records.	No post sale follow through, or mentoring. Just want to sell you the puppy.

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