How To Choose a Puppy From a Breeder: 5 Questions To Ask

by | Aug 14, 2024 | How To | 0 comments

Choosing the right breeder when getting a new puppy is about ensuring a happy, healthy addition to your family. A Responsible breeder prioritizes the well-being of their dogs and strives to produce puppies with good temperaments and minimal health issues. Sadly, puppy mills and irresponsible breeders often put profit before the welfare of their animals, leading to heartbreaking consequences for both the dogs and the unsuspecting families who take them home.

This blog post will equip you with five essential questions to ask any potential breeder, guiding you towards responsible breeders and steering you clear of those to avoid. After all, a little knowledge can significantly reduce the stress of finding your perfect furry companion, ensuring a happy and healthy addition to your family.

1. What Is the Breeder’s Experience and Reputation?

Think of it like hiring someone for a job – you’d want them to have experience and good references, right? A breeder’s experience matters. Ask how long they’ve been breeding, their involvement in breed clubs, and if they participate in shows or competitions. This showcases their dedication to the breed.

Next, check their reputation. Ask for references from past buyers, look for online reviews, and research the breeder or kennel name online. If you’re looking for a specific breed, explore breed-specific rescue groups or forums for additional insights.

If you need a starting point, websites like Shop Central Park Puppies can be helpful. But always do your own research to verify any breeder before making a decision. Remember, a good breeder wants their puppies to go to loving homes and will be transparent about their experience and practices.

2. Can I Meet the Puppy’s Parents?

Meeting a puppy’s parents is like giving you a glimpse into what your future furry friend might be like. You want to get a sense of their personalities, their values, and how they interact with each other. Their temperament and behavior can offer valuable clues about the traits your puppy might inherit. If the parents are anxious or aggressive, there’s a chance your puppy might exhibit similar tendencies.

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Meeting the parents is also an opportunity to see how the dogs are being cared for. Are they clean and well-groomed? Do they seem happy and healthy? A responsible breeder will keep their dogs in a clean, comfortable environment and provide them with plenty of love and attention.

If a breeder hesitates or refuses to let you meet the puppy’s parents, that’s a major red flag. It could mean they have something to hide, or they’re not prioritizing the well-being of their dogs. A reputable breeder will be proud to show off their dogs and will want you to meet the parents just as much as you want to meet them.

3. What Health Screenings and Vaccinations Have Been Done?

Responsible breeders take health screenings seriously. They’ll have both parents tested for genetic conditions common to their breed. Ask the breeder to see the health clearances for both parents. These documents should show that a veterinarian has evaluated the dogs and is free of any genetic health problems.

Ask about any health issues that are prevalent in the breed you’re interested in. A good breeder will be knowledgeable about these issues and will be able to discuss them with you openly and honestly. They should also be able to provide you with information about the puppy’s vaccination and deworming schedule.

4. How Does the Breeder Socialize the Puppies?

Early socialization is about exposing puppies to a variety of sights, sounds, smells, and experiences during their critical developmental period. Ask the breeder about their socialization practices. Do they handle the puppies regularly? Do they expose them to different sounds, like the vacuum cleaner or the doorbell? Do they introduce them to other dogs and people of different ages and genders? A responsible breeder will have a well-thought-out socialization plan in place.

Socialization is about creating a positive and enriching environment for the puppies. Ask the breeder about the puppies’ living conditions. Are they kept in a clean, safe space with plenty of room to play and explore? Do they have access to toys and other forms of enrichment?

A good breeder will be happy to talk about their socialization practices and show you where the puppies are raised. They’ll understand that early socialization is crucial for a puppy’s development and will take steps to ensure their puppies are well-prepared for life in their new homes.

5. What Support Do You Offer After the Sale?

Ask the breeder about their after-sale support. Are they available to answer questions and offer guidance as your puppy grows and develops? Do they have any resources or training recommendations they can share? A good breeder will be invested in the long-term well-being of their puppies and will want to ensure they’re thriving with their new families.

Life is unpredictable, and sometimes circumstances change. Ask the breeder if they have a take-back policy in case you’re unable to keep the puppy for any reason. A responsible breeder will want to ensure their puppies always have a safe and loving home, even if it’s not with you. Finally, inquire about any health guarantees or warranties the breeder offers. This can provide some peace of mind, knowing that the breeder stands behind the health of their puppies.

Final Thoughts

Bringing a puppy into your life is a joyous occasion, but it’s crucial to start this journey on the right foot. By asking these five key questions, you’re not just selecting a puppy – you’re choosing a responsible breeder who prioritizes the health, happiness, and future of their dogs. A well-bred puppy is an investment in years of companionship and unconditional love. Do your homework, trust your instincts, and you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect furry addition to your family.

In Columbia, Maryland, there’s a former grocery store that has been transformed into a department store for mythical creatures, time travelers, and intergalactic tourists.

It’s called DoodleHATCH.

You can groom a unicorn, visit an intergalactic space station, climb onto a giant’s bed, meet guinea pigs, explore an artist’s studio, and discover approximately a million other things that somebody actually sat down and made.

It’s a nonprofit interactive art museum, a community project, an educational resource, and one of my favorite places I’ve ever discovered.

And it could be demolished as part of a proposed redevelopment of the Long Reach Village Center.

But there’s still an opportunity to help.

You don’t need to donate money. You don’t need to live in Maryland. And you don’t need to know anything about zoning laws.

You can start by writing an email.

🚨 Here's what's happening

Developer Columbia Concepts has proposed redeveloping the Long Reach Village Center in Columbia, Maryland.

The proposal would replace existing buildings with new housing, recreational facilities, and other development.

Unfortunately, that puts a whole collection of existing community resources at risk of being demolished, including:

  • DoodleHATCH Interactive Art Museum
  • Maryland Fashion Institute
  • A makerspace used for community education
  • Local restaurants, shops, and service businesses
  • Early childhood education and community programs
  • A 140-foot-long mural created by approximately 100 community members

This isn’t just about losing a fabulous museum. It’s about losing an entire collection of places that people have built, supported, and relied on.

And there’s another possibility!

🌈 Meet The REALM

Lee Andersen, the founder of DoodleHATCH, and her nonprofit ManneqART want to preserve the existing community resources and transform the village center into an arts and culture destination called The REALM.

Imagine a place where artists have studios, children have room to explore, students can learn creative skills, people can attend performances, and local businesses continue serving their neighbors.

There are plans for a performing arts space, more opportunities for artists, and a Witches Kitchen that might serve you a horrible-disgusting breakfast.

Which, personally, I think sounds promising.

The people behind DoodleHATCH are gathering support to oppose the developer’s zoning proposal and advocate for The REALM.

And they’d love your help.

💌 How to help in about two minutes

If you live in Howard County, Maryland

If you’re 18 or older, DoodleHATCH is asking eligible county residents to visit the museum and sign their petition in person.

📍DoodleHATCH Interactive Art Museum

8775 Cloudleap Court, Unit 101
Columbia, MD 21045

⏱️ Museum hours: Friday–Sunday, 10 AM–5 PM.

And while you’re there, I highly recommend exploring the museum. Bring someone who needs a reminder that being an adult doesn’t mean you have to stop enjoying ridiculous things.

If you don't live in Howard County

You can still help!

DoodleHATCH is collecting emails from people who oppose the proposed Columbia Concepts redevelopment and support preserving the existing arts and community resources through The REALM.

Send your email to: Lilou@DoodleHATCH.com

Suggested subject: Support The REALM | Oppose Columbia Concepts Zoning Proposal ZB 1132M

You can write your own message or use one of the templates below.

You don’t need to write an essay. A short, genuine message explaining what you support and why is enough to participate in this email campaign.

✍️ What should your email say?

To make your position clear, include these three things:

1. Say what you’re opposing.

State that you oppose the proposed Columbia Concepts redevelopment and zoning amendment for the Long Reach Village Center, case ZB 1132M.

2. Say what you’re supporting.

Express your support for preserving DoodleHATCH, the Maryland Fashion Institute, existing community resources, and the proposed arts and culture center called The REALM.

3. Explain why you care.

This is the part that makes your email yours.

Maybe you’ve visited DoodleHATCH. Maybe you’re a parent who wants more creative places for children. Maybe you’re an artist, an educator, or someone who thinks it’s important to protect the few spaces where people can explore and make things without needing to buy something.

Maybe you live across the country and just learned that there’s a department store for mythical creatures in Maryland, and you think the world would be a little less interesting without it.

That’s a perfectly good reason to care.

Automatically Build Your Email!

💌 Email templates you can copy

Option 1: Short, simple, and effective

Subject: Support The REALM | Oppose ZB 1132M

Hello,

I’m writing to express my opposition to the proposed Columbia Concepts zoning amendment and redevelopment of the Long Reach Village Center (ZB 1132M).

I support preserving DoodleHATCH, the Maryland Fashion Institute, and the existing community services and small businesses, as well as the proposal to create The REALM arts and culture center.

Creative and educational spaces like these provide valuable opportunities for families, artists, students, and the wider community. I believe they deserve to be protected.

Please include my email with the messages of support being collected for DoodleHATCH and The REALM.

Thank you,

[Your Name]
[Your City/State]

Option 2: For artists, creatives, and fellow merriment makers

Subject: Please Protect DoodleHATCH and Support The REALM

Hello,

I’m writing in opposition to Columbia Concepts’ proposed redevelopment and zoning amendment for the Long Reach Village Center (ZB 1132M), and in support of The REALM.

I believe communities need places where creativity, imagination, and play are actively encouraged.

DoodleHATCH is an extraordinary example of what can happen when artists and community members are given room to create something that doesn’t fit into an ordinary commercial space.

Places like this are rare. They encourage people of all ages to experiment, learn, explore, and connect with one another.

I support preserving DoodleHATCH, the Maryland Fashion Institute, the existing community resources, and the vision for The REALM.

Thank you for collecting these messages and advocating for the creative community.

[Your Name]
[Your City/State]

Option 3: For people who've visited DoodleHATCH

Subject: Please Save DoodleHATCH | Oppose ZB 1132M

Hello,

I’m writing to express my opposition to the proposed Columbia Concepts redevelopment and zoning amendment for the Long Reach Village Center (ZB 1132M), and my support for The REALM.

I’ve personally visited DoodleHATCH, and I want to share why I believe it’s worth preserving.

[Write two or three sentences about your experience. What did you see? Who did you bring? What surprised you? What made you want to return?]

DoodleHATCH is more than a collection of exhibits. It’s a place where creativity is something people can actively participate in, and I believe losing it would be a tremendous loss to the community.

I support preserving the museum, the Maryland Fashion Institute, and the other existing community resources through the proposed arts and culture center, The REALM.

Please include my email with the messages of support you’re collecting.

Thank you,

[Your Name]
[Your City/State]

A few tips before you hit send

Automatically Build Your Email!

DO:

  • Use your real name.

  • Include your city and state so organizers can understand where support is coming from.

  • Clearly identify the redevelopment proposal you’re opposing.

  • Specifically mention your support for The REALM.

  • Add a personal sentence or two if you can.

  • Be respectful, even if you’re frustrated.

  • Share this page with other people who might want to help.

DON’T:

  • Pretend to be a Howard County resident if you’re not.

  • Claim to have visited DoodleHATCH if you haven’t.

  • Make up experiences or information.

  • Send threatening, insulting, or harassing messages.

  • Assume your email is the same thing as signing the official petition.

  • Worry about making your message sound impressive. Clear and genuine is better than elaborate.

💌 The Save DoodleHATCH Email Machine

A few clicks, a little personality, and an email that helps support DoodleHATCH and The REALM. No account or signup required.

What's your connection to DoodleHATCH?
Why does protecting places like this matter to you?
✨ Your email preview
To: Lilou@DoodleHATCH.com
Subject: 


✉️ Open in My Email App




Your information stays in your browser until you choose to copy or open the message. The email does not send automatically. Emails support DoodleHATCH's advocacy campaign; they are not the same as official petition signatures or zoning testimony. Please review the message before sending.
 





			

			

				
				
				
				
			

				
				
			

				
				
				
				
				
				
				

				

				
				
				
				
				

				
				
				
				
				
🐹 Wait. What exactly is DoodleHATCH?

			

				
				
				
				
				
			

				
				
				
				
				
I’m so glad you asked.


DoodleHATCH is an interactive art museum in Columbia, Maryland, created by artist, designer, and professional generator of wildly ambitious ideas, Lee Andersen.


The museum is designed as a pretend department store for mythological creatures, time travelers, and galactic tourists.


There are dozens of installations, and unlike most museums, you’re encouraged to touch things, explore, and participate.


There’s also an artist’s studio full of fabric and handmade garments, workshops, special events, birthday parties, free books, and opportunities for local artists to share their work.


The museum welcomes families and children, but adults are absolutely allowed to enjoy themselves, too.


And the woman behind it has spent decades bringing creativity into the community through fashion, festivals, education, and public art.


I discovered DoodleHATCH in 2020 and loved it so much that I started volunteering.


I’ve been back multiple times, and there are still things I haven’t seen.


That’s part of what makes it special. You can keep discovering things because people keep creating them.

			

			

				
				
				
				
			

				

				
				
				
				
				

				
				
				
				
				
You don't have to live near DoodleHATCH to care about it.

			

				
				
				
				
				
There are Merriment Makers everywhere.


People turning empty buildings into art spaces. People organizing parades. People teaching kids how to sew, paint, dance, or build things. People putting enormous amounts of time into projects that make their communities more interesting.


Sometimes they’re running nonprofits. Sometimes they’re working out of their garages. Sometimes they’re making something weird in a strip mall that you might drive past a hundred times without realizing what’s inside.


I hope you’ll help protect DoodleHATCH.


And I hope you’ll look around your own community, too. Visit the strange little museum. Go to the local art show. Find the person who makes giant puppets or organizes an absurd annual festival. Spend your money at the independent shop with the handmade things.


There are people everywhere creating reasons for us to be curious about being alive.


I’d like them to be able to keep doing that.

			

				
				
				
				
				
			

				
				
				
				
				
Help save DoodleHATCH. Help protect The REALM. Help keep the world interesting.

			

				
				
				
				
				
💌 Email: Lilou@DoodleHATCH.com


🌈 Visit: DoodleHATCH.com


🦄 Share: Uncustomary.org/Doodle