Buyer's Guide in Purchasing a Purebred Dog
Your choice of breed of dog is personal but some guidelines may influence your decision. Remember, a puppy (that small, cuddly bundle of fur) may soon become a very large dog unsuited to your family's lifestyle.
One advantage of buying a purebred is that you can see what the adult dog will look like. Within certain limits, the size and temperament is predictable and you can select a breed accordingly - one that suits your purpose and your lifestyle. Different breeds have different requirements for feeding, exercise, grooming and affection.
To be classed as a Purebred your dog must be eligible for registration with the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC). Your best source of a sound, healthy purebred dog is the Breeder, preferably one who is a CKC member and also a member of your local club or clubs.
Deal with a RECOMMENDED breeder who is concerned about the present and future development of his/her breed. In Ottawa, the Ottawa Kennel Club, the Bytown Obedience Club and the Capital Dog Training Club are always available to give help if you wish it. Visiting the Breeder will give you an opportunity to see relatives of your puppy and this will give you a clearer picture of the development of your own puppy. Ask to view the dam (mother) and sire (father). Since many breeders ship their dams to another area to be bred, it is not always possible to see the sire but perhaps a photograph is available.
The breeder must individually identify each puppy before it leaves the kennel by means of a tattoo number or a microchip implant. Unless this is done the dog cannot be registered with the CKC. If the dog was born in Canada, ask to see the litter certificate issued by the CKC. The certificate will indicate the breed of the litter, the date of birth, the registered names and numbers of the litter's sire and dam, number of males and females in the litter, the litter registration number, and the name and address of the person who owned the litter at birth. You should take note of the litter registration number and the name and address of the owner at birth as it is this person who is responsible for identifying the dog before you purchase it and individually registering the dog with the CKC. 
A healthy and socialized puppy should be healthy, clean, bright-eyed and show definite friendliness. The cleanliness of the breeder's kennel area or facilities are generally a good indication of the puppy's health prospects. The breeder should inform the buyer of health problems within the breed and should guarantee the dog's current health. Your puppy should have paid a recent visit to a veterinarian. It should have its inoculations up to date, have been wormed if necessary, and any other requirements met (such as tail docking, dew claws removed, etc.) A reputable breeder will welcome your independent veterinarian examination within 48 hours and if any health related problems are brought to his/her attention, will refund your money or make adjustments as required. Beware of the breeders who allow a puppy to leave the kennel too early around 7 weeks old is about the earliest. An older puppy or even an adult will be more mature, will likely be house-trained and generally very adaptable.Be sure to obtain a written receipt, health record, feeding instructions, grooming and general care information when you acquire your puppy.
If your puppy is stated as being a purebred you are legally entitled to a CKC Registration Certificate at no extra cost. The sale of purebred dogs is governed by the federal Animal Pedigree Act.If such certificate of registration is not provided by the seller within six months of the date of sale, the buyer can lay an Information Charge against the seller for violation of the Animal Pedigree Act. The penalty for violation of the Act is a fine, or imprisonment. Before purchasing your dog, you should establish certain criteria which are prerequisite to a purebred dog's eligibility for CKC registration. If such criteria are not confirmed by the seller, you should not buy the dog.
A RELIABLE BREEDER can be immeasurable help both when purchasing your dog and in advising in the future. Choose your breeder carefully. Finally, remember that once you have bought a pet, its development is your responsibility. It must be provided with the proper care, training and facilities to ensure that it remains mentally and physically healthy and under control at all times.
Be sure that your new friend becomes a PET and NOT A PEST.
