When you make the decision to incorporate a dog into your life, choosing the dog itself is also very important. The most common thing is to go to a shelter or shelter to give a home to a dog that may have been abandoned, even abused. Or to adopt a puppy from a litter that the mother’s family cannot care for.
However, there are also those who wish to acquire a dog of a specific breed, either because its characteristics better suit their needs or because they have a predilection for the breed itself. In this case, you have to go to a breeder to buy the animal.
Since the entry into force of the Animal Welfare Law, only duly registered professional breeders can breed and sell animals. The objective of this standard is to ensure that the animals are in optimal conditions. To make sure of this, there are a series of questions you should ask yourself before purchasing a dog from a breeder.
Do not be afraid to request documentation that proves that the kennel is duly registered in the official registry, with all the documentation in order. It is also a sign of trust that he is a member of a club or association of the breed. Regarding the purchase of the animal, there must also be documentation that guarantees the change of ownership, that the puppy is officially registered and has a pedigree.
The Animal Welfare Law also prohibits the sale of animals online, so you must go to the breeder in person to buy your pet. It is advisable to make a prior visit to check the good condition of the facilities, that it is clean, properly conditioned for the well-being of the animals.
This question is of utmost importance. Make sure that the puppies look good, that they seem happy and playful, as well as that they are clean and appear in top shape. If they seem scared or apathetic, with a disheveled appearance, be wary. The same goes for the mother, who must appear healthy and properly cared for. A detail that will give you many clues about the treatment of animals is the relationship between the mother of the puppies and the breeder, making it seem like they have a positive and loving bond.
In addition, you have to ask about the health status and diet of the puppies. They must have the mandatory vaccinations and have a microchip. Regarding feeding, during their first weeks of life they will be exclusively breast milk, while from 10 weeks onwards they begin to eat on their own. The breeder must offer them high-quality puppy food that provides them with all the nutrients they need.
