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Originally Posted by deonk1  The other advice I'd give is it is rare for a good quality breeder to have pups on hand, there is usually a waiting list, unless they've had a cancelation which is again rare in a good breeder. I'm just speaking from experience from what I've seen around here but it may be different in other places.
You want to buy the breeder before you by the pup, especially if you are just looking for a pet. A great breeder will find you the pup that best suits you. You want to feel comfortable enough with them so that when you're puppy does something strange you don't feel bad calling them (in my case I didn't know dogs could get the hiccups so I called my breeder at 9pm asking her if I should go to the vet lol). They should be a great support system for you especially if this is your first dog or even your first small dog.
Also a good breeder wont let a small dog go home until 12 weeks, 10 at the absolute earliest. 8 is the standard for some larger breeds, but these small dogs need that time to learn how to play how to not bite and to be healthy.
Also the reason you want to stay away from "teacups" is because it is a made up term. "Greeders" as we sometimes refer to them on here, use this term to raise the price, they try and sell puppies that are bred to be so tiny (to be a fashion accessory) that they have tonnes of health issues. A good breeder would never breed a female under 4.5 pounds and usually the mom is bigger than that. Trust me, 4-7lbs is small enough.
Goodluck! The above post has some great advice on where to find a good breeder. |
All of the above posts are right on target. If you can't see the parents, walk fast ....away. Check out YTCA.org for a great starting point of breeders in your state. Buy the Breeder first, and then the pup.