If you choose to buy a puppy from a breeder, we strongly recommend that you consider buying from a responsible and ethical breeder who has the breed's best interest in mind. When you buy from someone like that, you are helping reduce the demand for puppy mills and backyard breeders, thus slowly reducing the number of dogs ending up at shelters. Furthermore, you would be helping preserve and protect a heritage breed and their history while attaining a puppy that is well bred, healthy and with a predictable temperament.
What does it mean to be a good breeder?
Most prospective puppy homes looking to purchase a well bred puppy or dog may not always know where to start or what to look for. Often times it can be quite overwhelming to say the least.
While everyone defines what it means to be a good breeder a little differently, this is what we consider to be traits of a good breeder (in no particular order);
While everyone defines what it means to be a good breeder a little differently, this is what we consider to be traits of a good breeder (in no particular order);
- Responsible for the dogs they produce. Will take back puppies or dogs if their home can no longer keep them. Doesn’t send them off to a shelter (unless in dire circumstances, but even so it’s usually a breed specific shelter.
- Committed to and is passionate about preserving their breed.
- Breeds with respect to the breed standard. Knowledgeable on correct conformation and original purpose the breed, which is reflected in their breeding and decision making process.
- Breeds dogs that are physically and emotionally mature.
- Note: We do not personally breed dogs under the age of 2. This also allows us to use dogs with final hip certifications via OFA.
- Completes health tests recommended for the breed (prior to breeding) by the National Breed Club and the National Kennel Club and have the results publicly available via database such as the OFA and others.
- Alaskan Malamutes should have their hips x-rayed and certified for hip dysplasia, eyes tested and PN clear via DNA or parentage at the minimum. Elbow x-rays are also recommended.
- Breeds dogs that are structurally and mentally sound/balanced. Not simply because of a single trait such as size or colour or temperament and etc...
- Provides their dogs with clean, specious and secure spaces to live and thrive in.
- Raises their dogs on high quality food. Keeps their dogs lean and healthy.
- Is proud of the dogs used in their breeding program and the dogs they produce. Will talk openly and happily about their strengths and flaws.
- Looks for the best homes possible for their puppies and will have a thorough application process. Interested in getting to know their future puppy homes and makes sure they are a good match for both the breed and the puppy.
- Is committed to continued learning and professional development as a breeder.
- Is often involved in a breed club and/or local kennel club as a means to additionally support their breed and the community.
- Focuses on quality over quantity. Makes responsible choices and takes calculated risks if needed when it comes to breeding and selling puppies.
- Follows a code of ethics set out by their National Breed Club or Kennel Club (or both) to ensure they are on the right track.