So what is a responsible breeder? People have varying opinions of what this is, but the general consensus around here seems to be that at a minimum an ethical breeder:
--screens their breeding stock for known/common/frequent health issues (hip dysplasia, heart problems, elbow dysplasia, luxating patellas) via either OFA and/or PennHip methods.
--Only breeds to dogs that have also been health tested and whose results compliment their own dogs' results.
--Titles their breeding stock in multiple areas such as Conformation and one or more performance sports (such as obedience, agility &c.)
--Breeds no more than ONE litter a year (including studding).
--Has a decent understanding of canine genetics and patterns of heritability
--Is breeding superior dogs to better the breed (this is a bit nebulous and abstract, granted)
--Dilligently screens potential homes
--Has at least six homes lined up before breeding
--Pet puppies either S/N before placement, or placed with S/N contract
--Microchips all dogs owned/produced
--Will take back any dog produced, for the duration of the dog's life
--Does NOT specifically breed for color, size, or out-of-standard body types
--Places proper temperament at the top of their list of goals/priorities when breeding, equal to proper health and conformation.
--Can put up with civil questioning/criticism of their practices without defensiveness
--Is forthcoming about health problems/faults in the lines they use
This is posted due to the thread "Why breed". It can get heated quick when it comes to those that know and love the breed and those that are love the breed and are still getting to know the breed. Did I miss anything? And of course if you don't meet
exactly everything above does not mean you aren't ethical. This just seems to be what people are agreeing on.
