Interviewing a PA Bernedoodle Breeder: Questions You Should Always Ask

Thinking about bringing a Bernedoodle into your life? That's awesome! But before you get too caught up in those adorable floppy ears and curly coats, it's super important to find a good breeder. Interviewing a PA Bernedoodle Breeder: Questions You Should Always Ask is all about making sure you find someone who really cares about their dogs and will set you and your new furry friend up for success. It’s not just about getting a puppy; it’s about starting a relationship with someone who’s invested in the breed.

Key Takeaways

• Look into how long the breeder has been raising dogs and check out what others say about them online. See if they have mentors or other breeders they work with.

• Ask about health checks and genetic tests for the parent dogs. Also, check out where the puppies are kept and how they act. Make sure they're old enough, usually at least eight weeks.

• Responsible breeders stick to breed standards and don't focus on 'fad' colors just to make more money. They often belong to official breed clubs.

• A good breeder will want the puppy back if you can't keep it anymore, no matter the reason. They should also be someone you feel comfortable asking questions throughout your dog's life.

• Be cautious of breeders who push for quick sales, avoid letting you see the puppy's home, or rely heavily on shipping. A breeder should want to get to know you, too.

Understanding Breeder Experience And Reputation

Inquire About Their Breeding History

When you're looking for a Bernedoodle breeder, it's smart to ask how long they've actually been breeding dogs. The longer someone has been doing it, the more they've likely learned. It's not just about the number of years, though. Think about it like this: if you're getting a new car, you'd probably trust a mechanic who's been fixing cars for decades over someone who just started last week, right? It's kind of the same with dog breeders. Someone with a long history might have a better handle on what makes a healthy, well-tempered dog. Plus, it's usually easier to find information about breeders who have been around for a while.

Research Online Presence And Testimonials

Nowadays, most breeders have some kind of online presence, whether it's a website or social media pages. This is a great place to start your research. Look for comments from other people who have gotten dogs from them. See what past buyers are saying. Are people happy with their puppies? Do the dogs seem healthy and well-adjusted? It's also a good sign if other reputable breeders or people involved in the dog community speak well of them. You can often find testimonials or reviews that give you a glimpse into their reputation. Just remember to take everything with a grain of salt and look for consistent feedback.

Ask About Mentorship And Peer Networks

Even experienced breeders don't know everything. Dogs are living creatures, and sometimes unexpected things come up. A good breeder will have a network of other knowledgeable people they can turn to for advice. This could be a mentor, a veterinarian they trust, or other breeders they collaborate with. It shows they are committed to learning and providing the best care. If they seem like they know it all and never need advice, that might be a little concerning. It's a positive sign if they can point to people they learn from or consult with when needed. It means they're serious about the well-being of their dogs and the breed.

Assessing The Health And Well-being Of Puppies

When you're looking for a Bernedoodle puppy, the breeder's focus on health and well-being should be front and center. It's not just about getting a cute dog; it's about bringing home a healthy companion. A good breeder will be upfront about their practices and happy to share information.

Inquire About Health Screenings And Genetic Testing

Responsible breeders invest time and money into making sure their breeding dogs are as healthy as possible. This usually involves a couple of different types of tests. First, there are health screenings. Think of these like check-ups for the parent dogs to see if they have any common issues for their breed, like hip dysplasia or certain heart conditions. Then, there are genetic tests. These look at the dog's DNA to see if they carry genes for specific inherited diseases. Knowing this information helps breeders make smart decisions about which dogs to pair up, aiming to avoid passing on problems to their puppies.

Here's a breakdown of what to ask about:

• Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) certifications: Ask if the parent dogs have been evaluated by the OFA for hips, elbows, heart, and eyes. Reputable breeders will have documentation.

• Genetic testing panels: Inquire about tests for conditions common in Poodles and Bernese Mountain Dogs, such as Degenerative Myelopathy (DM), Von Willebrand's disease (vWD), and others relevant to the breed.

• Results for previous litters: A breeder with a long history might be able to share health information from past puppies, though this isn't always available.

It's important to remember that even with the best testing, no breeder can guarantee a puppy will never develop a health issue. However, thorough testing significantly reduces the risks.

Observe The Puppy's Environment And Temperament

Seeing where the puppies are raised tells you a lot about the breeder's commitment. Ideally, puppies should be born and raised in the home, not in a separate kennel or outbuilding. This allows them to get used to household noises and activity from a young age, which is great for their socialization.

When you visit (or see via video call, if in-person visits aren't possible), look around. Is the area clean? Are the puppies well-fed and alert? Do they seem curious and engaged, or fearful and withdrawn? You should also meet the mother of the litter if possible. She should appear healthy, calm, and comfortable interacting with her puppies and with you.

Understand The Importance Of Age-Appropriate Development

Puppies need time with their mother and littermates to learn important social skills. This period is critical for them to learn bite inhibition, understand canine body language, and develop appropriate behaviors. Most reputable breeders will not let puppies go to their new homes before they are at least eight weeks old. Some breeds, or puppies with slower development, might even stay with the breeder until ten or twelve weeks.

Be wary of any breeder who wants to send a puppy home earlier than eight weeks. This is often a sign that the breeder is more concerned with moving puppies quickly than with their proper development. It's a period where they learn how to be a dog, and taking them away too soon can lead to behavioral issues down the line.

Evaluating Breeder Practices And Ethics

Discuss Their Approach To Breeding Standards

When you're looking at a Bernedoodle breeder, it's good to know what they're aiming for with their dogs. Are they focused on producing healthy pups that fit the general idea of the breed, or are they chasing something else? A responsible breeder usually wants their dogs to be sound in body and mind, and to look like a typical Bernedoodle. They'll often be part of clubs that have rules about breeding, which helps keep things on track. It's worth asking them what their goals are and if they follow any specific breed club guidelines. This shows they're serious about the dogs, not just making a quick sale.

Understand Their Stance On Fad Colors

Sometimes, you'll see breeders advertising puppies with unusual or "fad" colors. These aren't usually part of the standard breed look and are often bred just because they're rare and people will pay more for them. A breeder who focuses on these trendy colors might be prioritizing profit over the dog's health and temperament. It's a good idea to be wary of this. Ask the breeder why they choose to breed for certain colors and see if their answer makes sense. If they seem more excited about the color than the dog's well-being, it might be a sign to look elsewhere.

Inquire About Kennel Club Affiliations And Ethics

Belonging to a kennel club, like the Bernese Mountain Dog Club or the Poodle Club of America, can tell you a lot about a breeder. These clubs often have codes of ethics that members agree to follow. These codes usually cover things like making sure dogs are healthy before breeding and not breeding for extreme traits. Ask the breeder which clubs they belong to and if they've signed any ethical agreements. This shows they're committed to doing things the right way and are part of a community that cares about the breed's future. It's a good sign if they can point to these affiliations as proof of their dedication.

The Breeder's Commitment To Their Dogs

A good breeder sees their dogs as more than just a business. They're invested in the well-being of every dog they bring into the world, for the dog's entire life. This commitment shows in a few key areas.

Ask About the Return-To-Breeder Clause

Reputable breeders will always have a clause in their contract stating that if, for any reason, you can no longer keep your Bernedoodle, it must be returned to them. This isn't about punishment; it's about responsibility. They want to know that all the dogs they've bred are accounted for and have a safe place to go, no matter what.

Gauge Their Willingness to Be a Resource

Getting a puppy is just the beginning of a long relationship. You want a breeder who is happy to answer your questions, big or small, throughout your dog's life. Think about it: if you have a late-night worry about your dog's health or behavior, would you feel comfortable calling them? A breeder who is truly committed will be a mentor and a source of support.

Here's what to look for:

• They readily share their knowledge about the breed.

• They are accessible for questions, even after you've taken the puppy home.

• They have a network of other experienced breeders or vets they can consult if they don't have an immediate answer.

A breeder's commitment extends beyond the sale. It's about ensuring the lifelong welfare of the dogs they've produced and being a reliable guide for the new owners.

Assess Your Personal Connection With the Breeder

Beyond all the technical stuff, you need to feel a connection with the breeder. You'll be working with them for a while, and potentially for years to come. If you don't get along or trust them, it's okay to keep looking. Finding a breeder whose personality meshes with yours is just as important as their breeding practices.

Navigating The Puppy Acquisition Process

So, you've found a breeder you think might be the one. Great! But before you start picking out puppy names, there are a few more things to consider. Getting a puppy isn't like ordering a pizza; it's a big commitment, and a good breeder knows that. They'll want to make sure you're a good fit for their puppy, just as much as you want to make sure the puppy is a good fit for you.

Understand The Breeder's Interview Process

A responsible breeder isn't just selling you a dog; they're placing a member of their dog family into your care. This means they'll want to get to know you. Expect a lot of questions. They might ask about your living situation, your work schedule, your experience with dogs, and how you plan to train and socialize the puppy. They might also ask about other pets or children in your home. This isn't an interrogation; it's their way of making sure their puppy goes to a loving, prepared home. If a breeder's first questions are about how quickly you can send a deposit, that's a pretty big red flag.

Discuss The Puppy Contract Details

Once you've both agreed you're a good match, you'll likely sign a contract. This document is important for both you and the breeder. It usually covers things like health guarantees, return policies, and requirements for the puppy's care. Make sure you read it thoroughly and understand everything before you sign. Don't be afraid to ask questions about any clauses you're unsure of. A good contract protects the puppy and sets clear expectations.

Be Wary Of Shipping And Delivery Services

This is a big one. Puppies are living beings, not packages. If a breeder offers to ship a puppy to you without you meeting it or seeing where it comes from, be very cautious. This often means the puppy might be coming from a large-scale commercial breeder or even a puppy mill, where the focus is on quantity, not the well-being of the dogs. Transporting a young puppy long distances, especially by air or truck, can be incredibly stressful and even harmful for them. They can arrive sick, scared, or traumatized. A reputable breeder will want you to visit, or at the very least, have a video call where you can see the puppy and its mother in their environment. Meeting the mother dog is important so you can assess her health and temperament.

The convenience of "shipping" a puppy should never outweigh the welfare of the animal. If a breeder pushes for quick delivery without allowing you to see the puppy's living conditions or meet the parents, it's a sign they might be hiding something about the puppy's origin or health.

Here are some things to look out for regarding puppy acquisition:

• No In-Person Visit: A breeder who refuses to let you visit their home or kennel, or at least do a thorough video call, is a concern.

• Meeting in Public Places: Be suspicious if a breeder suggests meeting you in a parking lot or at an airport to hand over the puppy.

• Puppy Age: Puppies should generally stay with their mother and littermates until they are at least 8 weeks old. Some breeds, especially smaller ones, may need to stay even longer, up to 12 weeks, to learn important social skills.

• Payment Before Meeting: If a breeder asks for a deposit or full payment before you've had a chance to properly vet them and the puppy, be very careful.

Wrapping It Up

So, you've asked all the right questions and hopefully found a breeder who feels like a good fit. Remember, this isn't just about getting a puppy; it's about starting a relationship with someone who cares deeply about their dogs. A good breeder will be a resource for you long after you bring your Bernedoodle home. Don't settle if something feels off. Trust your gut, and keep looking until you find that perfect match. Your future furry friend deserves the best start, and a responsible breeder is the first step to making that happen.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell if a breeder is experienced and trustworthy?

Look for breeders who have been raising dogs for a while. Check out their website or social media for comments from other happy dog owners and breeders. A good breeder often has a mentor who guides them, so ask about that person too. They should also be part of dog clubs and follow their rules.

What health checks should a breeder do for their puppies?

Responsible breeders make sure their adult dogs are healthy before breeding. They do tests like hip X-rays and DNA tests to see if the dogs carry any diseases. Ask to see the results for the puppy's parents and even their family history to ensure the puppy comes from a healthy line.

What should I look for when visiting a breeder's place or seeing the puppies?

The place where the puppies live should be clean and well-kept. The puppies themselves should look healthy, energetic, and have a good weight. You should also see the mother dog interacting with her puppies and looking comfortable and happy.

Why is it important for a breeder to ask me a lot of questions?

A good breeder cares deeply about where their puppies go. They'll ask you about your home, family, work schedule, and how you plan to train and care for the puppy. This shows they want to make sure you're a good fit for their puppy, just like you want to make sure they're a good breeder.

What is a 'return-to-breeder' clause and why is it important?

This is a part of the contract that says if you can no longer keep the dog for any reason, you must return it to the breeder. This shows the breeder takes responsibility for all the dogs they've bred throughout their lives.

Should I be worried if a breeder offers to ship the puppy to me?

Be very cautious if a breeder primarily offers shipping or delivery services, especially without letting you visit. Transporting young puppies can be very stressful and unsafe for them. It's best to meet the breeder and see the puppies in person to ensure their well-being and the breeder's honesty.