HISTORY OF THE DOBERMAN PINSCHER by Malcolm Dupre

HOW TO CHOOSE A DOBERMAN BREEDER
Part 2
Written by: Jean A. Clark

 

 

Ask the breeder how she socializes her puppies. A good breeder should expose her puppies to a variety of different experiences from the day they are born. Be sure that the breeder you are considering does this. A poor socialization period can result in a temperament problem with the pup. Ask the breeder about the parents' temperaments. It is best to note the dam's temperament yourself when you visit to make sure she is what you want. Inquire about how many litters are bred each year. Stay away from the breeder that produces litter after litter. Most reputable breeders produce only one or (at most) two litters a year.

Be sure you ask about contracts and agreements. Ask to have a copy of the purchase contract mailed to you before you visit. Make sure it is one you can live with. If you are interested in a companion puppy, some breeders will give you limited registration, which allows you to show in performance events such as obedience and agility, but prevents registration of any offspring your dog produces.

It is best to spay or neuter a pet puppy. It is better health wise and behavior wise to do have this simple procedure performed. Reputable breeders will have a spay/neuter contract for any puppy sold to a pet home. This is to guarantee that a puppy with a disqualification or conformation fault will not be bred and further produce this fault in his/her offspring. Some breeders will sell a puppy on a co-ownership basis if they do not know you or you do not have recommendations by someone they know. This is to insure that their puppy is getting the best possible care. If you do not like the idea of co-ownership, then investigate a different breeder. Neither AKC nor the DPCA recommends co-owning a dog.

Ask the breeder for references from people who own dogs of her breeding as well as vet references. If you are going to co-own, make sure there are several people on the list who are co-owners. Inquire as to what breed clubs she belongs to. At the minimum she should be a member of the Doberman Pinscher Club of America. It would be ideal to find a breeder active in a local DPCA chapter club. Check in the breeder's contract to see if he has a return policy. A good breeder will require that if, for any reason, you cannot keep your dog, you contact him and return the dog for replacement. A good breeder is concerned about the welfare of each and every dog he has produced.

When you call the breeder, be prepared to answer more questions than you ask. Any breeder worth his salt will want to know about your situation, previous experience, and reasons for getting a dog. She will want to know that her puppy is going to a good home and will be treated as a member of the family. Answer all questions honestly, as the breeder will probably arrange for a home visit to apprise the situation himself.

Research a breeder carefully. Your breeder will be the biggest source of information and help you will ever have. A good breeder won't just be someone you buy a dog from, he will be a lifelong friend and confidant. She will share your joys and triumph in your accomplishments, encourage you when thing get difficult, and she will comfort and mourn with you when your dog crosses the Rainbow Bridge. Truly, a good breeder is the perfect complement to your Doberman.

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