Questions to Ask a Breeder Before Getting a Puppy
If you’re in the market for a well-bred puppy from a responsible breeder, it’s essential to do your homework and have a list of questions ready to ensure the breeder is a good fit.
For help selecting a good breeder, check out our popular article: Guide to Selecting a Good Breeder
This guide is brought to you by Amy Pishner, founder of Valor K9 Academy, who has years of experience evaluating breeders and raising healthy, well-socialized puppies.
“As a professional puppy trainer, I cannot stress enough how important it is to choose a breeder who prioritizes health, temperament, and proper socialization. Ethical breeding practices set the foundation for lifelong well-being, behavior, and success in every dog’s life.” — Amy Pishner, Valor K9 Academy
General Questions to Ask a Breeder
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Why did you choose to breed [insert breed]?
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How long have you been breeding?
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What sets you apart from other breeders?
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Do you health test all of your dogs?
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What kind of support do you offer after a puppy goes home?
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Where do your breeder dogs live?
Questions About Breeder Dogs (Dams/Sires)
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What health testing do you perform? Can you show proof?
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What temperament traits do you breed for?
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Do any of your dogs have behavioral issues? Are they genetic or due to upbringing?
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Are any of your breeder dogs titled? If so, in what and why?
Questions About Bloodlines
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Which dogs in [insert breed] bloodlines are highly sought-after, and why?
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Do you use outside dogs from other breeders in your program?
Determining If the Breed/Breeder is Right for You
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What types of homes are your dogs most suitable for?
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What homes or lifestyles are they not well-suited for?
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What breed factors do most people overlook?
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What “jobs” are your dogs best suited for?
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Am I a good candidate for your puppy?
Questions About Puppy Reservation and Selection
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How are puppies reserved?
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What happens if a litter doesn’t take or is smaller than expected?
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Who chooses the puppy: buyer or breeder? Why?
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Do you perform temperament testing or hire outside help?
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Do puppies receive ENS (Early Neurological Stimulation)? What type and how often?
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What type of socialization do puppies get before going home?
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How long is your wait list?
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What happens to the deposit if I can’t take a puppy?
Questions About Contracts
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What does your puppy contract include?
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Do you offer a health guarantee? If so, what is it?
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Do you have first right of refusal if I can’t keep my puppy?
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What happens if my dog develops behavioral or health issues? Refund or replacement?
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Have you ever had dogs returned? What happened?
In Summary
Asking questions is expected by reputable breeders. A responsible breeder will also have plenty of questions for you to ensure a good match.
Good breeders:
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Health test all their dogs (hips, elbows, eyes, heart, etc.)
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Breed conformationally correct dogs with sound temperaments
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Provide proof of testing and allow visits before deposit
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Socialize and temperament-test puppies for proper placement
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Never sell sick puppies or multiple puppies to unprepared homes
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Offer refund or take back puppies if needed
Tips from Amy Pishner:
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Look for breeders who make you feel confident, not pressured
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Pricing should not vary based on color or gender
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Full AKC registration is often withheld until puppies pass health and temperament checks as adults
For a list of recommended German Shepherd breeders, check out: Ethical German Shepherd Breeders
Cover Photo: Freya from Valor Protection Dogs
Written by Amy Pishner
About the Author:
Amy Pishner is the Founder of Valor K9 Academy, a veteran-owned dog training company in Boise, Idaho. With over a decade of experience training thousands of dogs, Amy specializes in balanced dog training that builds trust, obedience, and lasting results.