The biggest challenge you face when looking for your new family member is locating a trustworthy breeder. Thorough research is essential, especially when adopting your new friend over the internet.

You will need to find a breeder that stands behind what he produces. Most breeders give you one-year health warranty, but ask for a longer one. You should get at least a two-year health warranty for life threatening genetic issues. Because there are several issues that might not come up within the first year. Be sure to get any health warranty in writing

Find a breeder that offers continued support and services after the sale. I you need help with training or just have questions, make sure he will be available.

Ask for reference from previous clients. If the breeder is not willing to provide them, walk away. Ask references about the health of their puppy and their level of satisfaction with the adoption general. Ask specifically if they have had any negative issues the breeder. If you get a negative answer discuss it with the breeder. Remember there are two sides to every story.

Most importantly, follow your instinct. all babies are cute, but that does not mean they are bred correctly. Some breeders will tell you what they think you want to hear. When talking to breeders take notes so you can keep track of  of what they say. Talk to them several times before you make your decision.

BREEDERS TO STAY AWAY FROM:

	Breeders that have a buy-now button on their websites.
	Breeders that don't provide written warranties
	Breeders that will not answer your questions
	Breeders that will not give you references
	Breeders that pressure you to make a impulse decisions
	Breeders that have a litter from an accidental breeding. Remember not every Shih Tzu and Bichon should be bred.

QUESTIONS TO ASK BREEDERS

	Are your puppies home-or kennel bred? Please note: Home breeders do not necessarily make the best breeders, nor are kennel breeders lesser quality breeders).
	How are your puppies socialized?
	What grooming requirements are there with this breed?
	What type of exercise does this breed require?
	How many litters do you have per year?
	How many times a year do you breed your females?
	What happens to retired breeding females and male?
	What type of food do you use?( Make sure it is a good, healthy food. If it isn't, ask the breeder why he chose this particular food)
	At what age is the puppy released to the now owner?
	What immunizations has the puppy recieved?
	Has the puppy been de-wormed?
	Do you offer a contract in writing?
	Do you require the puppy to be spayed or neutered?
	Do the puppies receive any type of training before they are released to their new home?

 

Most breeders will more than happy to answer questions related to the purchase of one of their puppies. They will also ask you many questions. Some of the questions  may seem strange, but good breeders are concerned about the type of people to whom they are releasing one of their puppies to.

 

The buyer and breeder must be comfortable with one another to make sure the puppy gets the best home possible. Breeders must make sure the puppy parent gets the best resources available.