Discussions

We are interested in buying a small mixed breed puppy from a family just outside of Brandon. Wondering what we should be looking for and what potential questions to ask before purchasing. Thank you

Check what temperament the parents are like, if they've been vet checked, de-wormed, 1st shots, if she's good with kids and people in general, and if she has had any issues being sick. Be ready to be busy. I got a puppy that was 16 weeks old and boy was I under prepared. She chewed whatever she could find, peed on our other dogs bed, went from coming to us when called one day to being a runner the next (that lasted for 3 years..lol). She ended up being the best dog and she is 7 now. Just be prepared to be patient and spend lots of time with him/her. We also didn't crate her because I don't like it but she also spent lots of time not being home alone either.

How long have you been breeders?  
Are the Sire and Dam available to see? Do the Sire or Dam have any health conditions? How many litters have the Sire and Dam had together? At what age will the puppies be ready to go? Will they have a vet check? Vaccination? Deworming? Do you provide a health guarantee? Is there a breeding contract? Will they be registered? Is there the option to register? Will the puppies be socialized? Have any of the puppies in the litter been sick?  
 
When you go to pick your puppy you should see them in a group. Watch how the puppies interact as a group than watch how they interact individually. You will want to decide what kind of puppy personality will be right for you and your family (the eager to please puppy, the bully puppy, the shy puppy etc.) Just remember there is no right or wrong way to test a puppy to pick the right one.  
 
Have fun and enjoy your new puppy!

Don't shop...ADOPT

I agree with adopting from a reputable rescue/ SPCA/ Humane Society. Anyone who is breeding puppies that are not CKC or AKC registered, and not breeding for the betterment of the breed are backyard breeders. There are so very many dogs and cats euthanized every year. Encourage everyone to spay and neuter, and adopt rather than being part of the problem.

Ask if they have their shots, what's their temperament like and pick each puppy up and you'll know which one you like best. ALL puppies bite, chew, pee, etc. They're phases. Good luck !!!!

curlysister said "I agree with adopting from a reputable rescue/ SPCA/ Humane Society. Anyone who is breeding puppies that are not CKC or AKC registered, and not breeding for the betterment of the breed are backyard breeders. There are so very many dogs and cats euthanized every year. Encourage everyone to spay and neuter, and adopt rather than being part of the problem. "

that these 'mixed breed dogs' are mutts and not worth the hundreds of dollars that some people are charging and some people are willing to pay. That being said all our dogs have been mutts because 'MUTTS ROCK'!!  
 
Best dog we ever had came from the Brandon pound and she cost us 17 bucks!