Common Philosophy

This was posted by a new friend I've connected with on Facebook. Kristina Estlund is a Terrier breeder from California and she also writes for "Showsight" magazine. One of my recent puppy buyers is a mutual friend. My thanks to Christi Johnstone (Jack's mom) who "introduced" us and to Kristina for allowing me to re-post this:


Great Rules To Buying from a Breeder

From a Pit Bull Breeder Site:

If you must buy from a breeder, here's some things to watch out for. If the Pit Bull breeder you are looking at does not have at least 9 out of the following 10 criteria firmly in place, run away as fast as you can.

*Are "Into" Dogs. In other words they actually do something with their dogs. They don't have them tied up or has house pets.

*Their dogs are show dogs, sport dogs, etc... and they have titles to prove it. Pups' pedigrees are filled with dogs who have obtained show titles/working certificates; never breeds dogs without "papers"

*Supports Pit Bull rescue. What? They actually care about the breed? Yes. If they don't support rescue directly or the idea of rescue. They need to really look at why they are breeding.

*Knowledgeable about every aspect of breed, including health issues/defects; they research genetics and health issues when choosing their breedings.

*Offer continued help with their dogs. If you have a question, you should be able to pick up the phone or sign online (email) and get an answer. For a very, very, very long time after you get your pup.

*Have a list of reputable references. If they can't provide you with at least 5 or 10 references, leave.

*Breedings are planned 1 to 2 years in advance and they rarely breed. Rare meaning like once every year or three.

*Only breeds proven, stable, mature dogs. Not puppies or young dogs under the age of two.

*Does all genetic testing and does not breed dogs that have not been completely tested and shown free of common defects.

*They want to meet you and your family. Not just once, but they want to get to know you.


So you see, I'm not the only one out there that believes in this philosophy. Do your homework before you buy a puppy!