Three Steps To Purchasing A Purebred Puppy

Purchasing a purebred puppy can bring joy and happiness to you and your family for many years. However, the decision to purchase a dog should not be based on impulse nor taken lightly. Taking a few minutes now to review the information provided by The Canadian Kennel Club and thinking about the issues will help you choose the purebred dog best suited for you and your family. Our organization is the primary registry for purebred dogs in Canada and our members have been providing guidance and supportive information to purebred puppy buyers since 1888. This booklet "Making the Right Choice" identifies the three general phases any new purchaser will go through before buying a dog.

When considering the source of your new puppy, we encourage everyone to buy from a member in good standing of The Canadian Kennel Club. Each of our members act as an independent breeder that has agreed, as part of membership, to adhere to the CKC Code of Ethics. Within this code, two aspects are important to the new buyers:

• Our members have agreed to "provide their dogs with appropriate housing, food, and health care, as outlined in the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association's Code of Practice for Canadian Kennel Operations".
  
   
• Our members have agreed to "include in their programs only Canadian Kennel Club registered (or registerable) stock which will strengthen the genetic pool and thus guarantee further progression towards the ideals of the standard".

The positive outcome of good breeding practices will develop physically and mentally sound dogs. The health of an individual dog will differ from the next but, in a world where genetics are so prominent, our member breeders take the quality of their animals very seriously. As a new buyer, take advantage of the care, love, and nurturing that goes into every litter by buying from a reputable CKC member.

Never buy on impulse and really think through the decision to get a dog. A dog is a lifetime commitment and the animal will rely on its guardian for all of its needs.

The average life span of a dog is anywhere from ten to fifteen years or more and a puppy is a living creature you cannot "try on for size". Be prepared to make a commitment to the care and well being of your dog from puppyhood to old age. To help make the decision on whether you should introduce a dog to your life, consider the following points.

 

Does your lifestyle offer sufficient time to socialize and train your puppy?
This will be a substantial commitment on your part, particularly in the first year. Puppies do not come with an obedience guarantee, nor will they be housebroken. Puppies are like children and need the constant love and attention of their family. Your early commitment will be duly rewarded with the unqualified love and admiration of your dog through its entire life.

 

Will your dog be happy in your home?
Consider your own accommodation. Apartment or house, large or small, is your yard fenced? Do you live in the country or an urban area? Where will you exercise your dog? All puppies grow up and the type of accommodation you have must be appropriate for your mature dog. Each breed has different needs and characteristics. If your selected breed requires space to use up excess energy, don't fool yourself and don't expect the animal to be happy in a confined space. As much as you may like the look of a specific breed, be sure its physical environment is a comfortable setting for the animal.

 

Are all members of the family in favour of having a puppy join the household?
A "split family" may lead to disagreements and ultimately result in the dog being returned or left with a rescue group or humane society. In order for the dog to become a lifelong member of the family, the original decision to buy must be shared with equal enthusiasm by all members of the family.

 

Are there young children in the family?
One of the main reasons people purchase a puppy is "for the kids". Be sure the match between dog and children is right. Sometimes young children can seriously hurt a puppy albeit unintentional and by the same token a powerful or rambunctious puppy can easily overcome, hurt and frighten a small child. While it is ideal for both to socialize at a young age, parents must assume the responsibility of constant watchfulness so neither is harmed. This done, both puppy and child will very likely become bosom buddies to the end.

 

Who will feed, walk, groom and pick up after the dog?
Too often a puppy arrives without the decision makers thinking this through. If this is to be a family dog, everyone should be committed to its care. If children are involved, don't expect them to shoulder the responsibility, it's too much, but they should be expected to assume their portion of this responsibility. It often ends up with one family member attending to the dog's needs, so talk it over and come to some agreements in advance. Everyone will be happy - including the dog.

 

Have you prepared a budget for the cost of caring for the dog?
This will involve nutritious food, municipal licensing, regular visits to your vet, plus bedding etc. Such things as obedience training, regular grooming or pet insurance should also be considered. It won't be a huge amount but be prepared for the additional expense in your household budget.

 

Don't buy the dog as a surprise gift.
A purebred puppy can be a marvelous gift if the giver has thoroughly discussed the matter with the recipient in advance. All of the previous consideration must be reviewed with the recipient and they most certainly need to be the major influence in the breed of dog being obtained. Under no circumstances is the practice of giving a surprise puppy appropriate. Too often the animal is unwanted from the beginning and finds itself helplessly abandoned or if kept, ultimately neglected. Please be responsible, your dog will love you for it.

The most pleasurable step in selecting a new puppy is choosing the breed best suited to your interest. The CKC registers over 160 uniquely different breeds in Canada, each with their own natural instincts, characteristics and appearance. Some large, some small, some high maintenance while others are not. Some can be docile and others full of energy with long coats or short. The list of differences goes on and on. Do your research and take time to consider all aspects of the breed you select. Narrow your choices down to two or three breeds suited to your lifestyle, then get as much information as you can before making a final choice. Visit the CKC Web Site at www.ckc.ca and your local library for information. The CKC Web Site has an interactive breed survey helpful in narrowing your choice. We also carry various books in our CKC Store (1-800-250-8040) which will assist you in making an informed choice.

Your research will lead you to your preferences but most of all you need to experience your selected breeds first hand. This, and only this, will lead to your final decision. Visit one of the many CKC events held throughout Canada each year to experience the breeds without any commitment. While there, chat about the breed with the owner or breeder. People are generally willing to provide information and give you the first hand experience you may need. A calendar of all our events is posted on the Web at www.ckc.ca or may be obtained by contacting CKC Client Services at (416) 674-3699.

One advantage of purebred dogs is that the qualities of each generation (size, coat, temperament etc.) are passed on to the next. All breeds are different however, so consider the following from the point of view of a mature dog when developing your short list:

 

Whatever your choice, there is a purebred dog that will be right for you. For further assistance contact CKC Client Services at (416) 674-3699.

 

When you have narrowed your breed choices to a short list and are about to move to the next and most important step – the actual purchase of the dog - you must locate a reputable breeder.

Purebred dogs are sold through various channels but the only source we recommend is from a knowledgeable breeder who specializes in your breed of choice. Visit a number of breeders and compare the dogs, the facilities and the breeders. Make your final purchase from someone you are comfortable with and who you feel you can trust beyond the day of purchase to be as concerned about your puppy's future as you are.

To locate breeders in your area, we suggest you obtain a copy of the current Dogs in Canada Annual. It contains a major listing of breeders from across Canada and is available from the CKC Order Desk at 1-800-250-8040, bookstores, or most libraries. The CKC does not recommend individual breeders but we can put you in touch with National, Regional, or local clubs who in turn refer potential buyers to breeders of their organization.

To assist you in selecting your breeder we strongly recommend that you follow the "Golden Rules" for purchasing a purebred dog. No responsible breeder should have difficulty complying with the following so use them as your yardstick in finding the right breeder with the right dog.

 

1. Always visit the kennel.
2. Make certain the dam (mother) is on the premises and available for you to see.
3. Ask to see health certificates and records of visits to the veterinarian.
4. Insist upon being provided with a signed bill of sale stating the puppy is being sold as a purebred.
5. Insist upon being provided with a written guarantee.
6. Confirm that the dog has been permanently and uniquely identified.
7. Confirm CKC registration of the parents, the litter and the puppy you are about to purchase.
8. Ask if the breeder is a member of the CKC.

Rule #1 - Always Visit The Kennel

Always visit the kennel before buying the dog. Let your eyes, ears and nose be the judge. Make certain that you are allowed full access to the kennel, that conditions are clean, the dogs have ample kennel space and look healthy and well cared for in every respect. A reputable breeder will not only welcome a visit to their kennels but they will insist upon it. They will also want to know about your family, your lifestyle and where the dog will be living. In doing so they aren't being intrusive, but instead it is a sign they care about the placement and future of their dogs. During the interview process a good breeder should discuss any particular needs or problems associated with the breed. If they do not bring this up, you should ask. Knowing negatives is as important as knowing positives.

Warning Signs:
 

• The breeder suggests that a visit to their kennel is not essential.
• The breeder offers to sell the puppy sight unseen.
• If upon visiting a kennel you are restricted from full access.
• If upon visiting the kennel your eyes, ears and nose are sending bad signals. Any of these signs, walk away and don't come back.

Rule #2 - Make certain the dam (mother) is on the premises and available for you to see

This is an absolute must! You should also ask if it is possible to see the sire (father) and if this is not possible then ask why this is the case. It may be that the sire is owned by another breeder and was used for stud purposes only. In such cases, the sire may not be on the premises at the time. The dogs may also be the product of artificial insemination. Both are acceptable reasons for the sire not being present. A reputable breeder will also have in their possession an official Canadian Kennel Club pedigree that describes the lineage of the puppy. The pedigree should include not only the name and registration numbers of the parents but the grandparents and great-grandparents as well.

Warning Signs:
 

• The breeder does not have the dam on the premises or have the pedigees available. No reputable breeder would have puppies on the premises without the dam being there and pedigrees must be available.
   
• If the breeder refers to the CKC, confirm that they mean The Canadian Kennel Club because a number of unofficial registries are also using these initials.
   
• No dam, no pedigrees, no deal.
   

Rule #3 - Ask to see health certificates and records of visits to the veterinarian

This is a very important component of buying a purebred dog. Some breeds of purebred dogs have a history of inherited health disorders. Reputable breeders will have established a breeding program that dramatically reduces or eliminates the possibility of such disorders appearing in their dogs. Therefore, ask to see the formal health clearances for both the dam and the sire. The fact that the sire may not be on the premises is irrelevant. The breeder should have copies of such clearances on file. You should also ask to see the veterinary records of the puppy. Good breeders ensure that the parents have health clearances before breeding them. No credible breeder would sell their puppies without an initial visit to the veterinarian for shots and a general check-up.

Warning Signs:
 

• The breeder advises that health records are not available or that the health records will be sent with the certificate of registration.
   
• The breeder advises that the breed does not have any health problems.
   
• The breeder advises that it is your responsibility to take the puppy to the veterinarian after you purchase it.
   

Rule #4 - Insist upon being provided with a signed bill of sale stating the puppy is being sold as purebred

Your bill of sale is a significant part of your legal protection. It should be dated and signed by the breeder and it should include, at the very least, a verification that the dog is purebred, the breed of the dog, your name and the name of the breeder, the identification number of the dog (see Rule #6 below), a verification that you will be provided with registration papers (see Rule #7 below) and the total price of the dog, including all costs of registration. Never pay for a purebred dog, in whole or in part, without first being provided with a proper bill of sale containing all of the above.

Warning Signs:
 

• The breeder asks for a deposit or full payment with the promise that a bill of sale will be sent to you in due course. A bill of sale is a must. There are no excuses.
   

Rule #5 - Insist upon being provided with a written guarantee

The CKC believes that a purchaser of a purebred dog in Canada should expect to obtain a healthy dog, both physically and mentally. It is the nature of genetics, however, that a dog may be clear of problems for five generations but problems may still crop up in the sixth. A guarantee covers what would be the recompense in the case of a problem, not an assurance that a problem will never occur. Reputable breeders will provide a detailed guarantee for the dogs they sell and reputable breeders will not hesitate to uphold their guarantee. Never buy a dog without a written guarantee and understand the intent behind it. No guarantee, no purchase.

Warning Signs:
 

• The breeder advises that the guarantee will be sent to you with the registration certificate.
   
• The breeder suggests that he or she cannot guarantee the health of a living creature. (A breeder cannot guarantee that a dog will never get sick but they can guarantee that it is clear of any genetic problems).
   

Rule #6 - Confirm that the dog has been permanently and uniquely identified

If the dog is purebred it must be identified prior to leaving the breeder's premises in order for it to be eligible to be registered with CKC. This is the law. It is the responsibility of the breeder to pay for the identification. Two forms of identification are acceptable: a Canadian Standard microchip transponder or a tattoo. A tattoo should be easily read with the naked eye. If the dog has been microchipped, the breeder must have an electronic scanner in his or her possession with which the dog can be scanned. Ask the breeder to scan the dog to confirm that the microchip identification is in place and that the number matches that which is indicated on the bill of sale. Failing this, he should have a veterinarian's certificate verifying the presence of the microchip in the dog.

Warning Signs:
 

• The breeder tells you that identifying the dog is your responsibility.
   
• The breeder tells you that the microchip has been implanted in the dog but is unable to scan it or provide a veterinarian's certificate stating the designated microchip is present in the dog. Leave. You are not dealing with a reputable breeder.
   

Rule #7 - Confirm CKC registration of the parents, the litter and the puppy you are about to purchase

This is not a matter of choice - this is the law in Canada, as required under the Animal Pedigree Act. Any breeder selling a dog as purebred must register the dog and provide the new owner with the registration certificate within six months of the date of sale. In order for the puppy to be registered, the dog's parents and the emanating litter must also be registered. A reputable breeder will be more than willing to provide this information. If you have any doubts, ask the breeder for a copy of the Certificate of Registration of Litter previously issued by CKC. It is the responsibility of the breeder to forward the application papers to CKC and pay for the initial registration and transfer of the dog into your name. The cost to a member breeder is approximately $25.00. Upon receiving the breeder's applications, it takes CKC about 10 days to process the applications and send the certificate of registration back to the breeder. The breeder must then send the certificate to you, as the new owner of the puppy. Obtaining official papers is the responsibility of the seller, not the buyer. Don't accept the responsibility of sending in the applications or paying for them.

Warning Signs:
 

• The breeder hands you the registration application papers and tells you to send them in with the required fees.
   
• The breeder offers you the purebred dog at one price with papers and at another price without papers.
   

Rule #8 - We recommend that you determine if the breeder is a member of CKC

Virtually all reputable breeders in Canada are members of The Canadian Kennel Club. Some of our breeders have been members for more than 50 years. All CKC members are obligated to adhere to CKC policies and procedures, the CKC Code of Ethics and the Code of Practice For CKC Member Breeders - non-members are not! Most reputable breeders proudly display the CKC Code of Ethics prominently in their kennel. If the breeder is not a member of CKC, then it is worthwhile asking why this is the case. Listen carefully to the answer and make your own judgements. If you have any doubts, please feel free to contact our Client Services Department at (416) 674-3699, or e-mail us at information@ckc.ca to ask for membership status about a particular breeder

Warning Signs:
 

• The breeder tells you there is no advantage to belonging to CKC.
   
• The breeder tells you that he or she did belong to CKC but decided to give up their membership. Be aware that there are a number of advantages to belonging to CKC and for a breeder - one of those advantages is 50% off all registration fees. They may not belong to CKC for a very good reason or, it may be a bad reason. If any of these signs appear then it is worth a call to the CKC Client Services Department just to check.
   

You have taken the plunge. You are now the proud owner of a CKC registered purebred dog. To assist you in being a great dog owner and to help your new puppy grow into a good neighbour, may we suggest the following:

 

• Ensure that you comply with the local by-laws regarding leashing, noise and number of dogs allowed on your premises.
  
   
• Whether there is a by-law existing or not, religiously adhere to the "poop and scoop" principle.
  
   
• Never allow your dog to run loose in a park where children are playing, even if it is designated as a "leash-free park"
  
   
• Enroll your dog in obedience classes. A well-trained dog makes a great neighbour. You can start with Puppy Kindergarten or if that is not available in you area, the Beginners or Novice Class.
  
   
• Check out the CKC Store on our web site, for books on your breed. We also have books and videos in areas such as training, grooming and health issues.
  
   
• Visit our "Join The CKC! page and join the Club. Receive a copy of the Dogs in Canada magazine every month, plus a copy of the prestigious Dogs in Canada Annual. Benefit from the many CKC co-op benefits and learn about purebred dogs and the many activities and events supported by CKC.
  
   
• Last, but by no means least, have fun with your new dog. We hope that this wonderful new addition to your household will bring great joy and happiness to you and all of the members of your family for many years to come.

From a small gathering of London Ontario dog fanciers in 1888, The Canadian Kennel Club has grown to be recognized internationally as Canada's authority on purebred dogs.

Today, with nearly 25,000 members across the country, we continue to build for the future.

Our mandate, under the auspices of Agriculture/Agrifood Canada and as adherents to the federal Animal Pedigree Act, is to register and maintain pedigree records for over 160 breeds of purebred dogs. We do it proudly and with accuracy for nearly 75,000 dogs per year.

As well as maintaining one of the best registries in the world, the CKC develops the Rules and Regulations for 15 types of competitive events such as Conformation Shows, Obedience Trials, Field Dog Trials, Herding Trials, Draft Dog Tests and introduced in January 2000, the popular and growing sport of Agility.

We are, however, much more than record keepers. We are the strongest canine voice in Canada. We speak on behalf of every dog and every owner in this country.

 

There are two categories of membership in the CKC. One for the dog loving pet owner and one for those who wish to particpate more actively in the many facets of the sport of dogs. Each is designed to suit individual interest levels and needs.

If you own a pet as a companion, you or your children would be interested in one of the associate category memberships (Companion, Junior or Fellow).

If active participation is your interest, consider our Regular Category Membership allowing you full access as a participant at Official CKC events.

Whatever your choice, join today. Details can be obtained from our Web site Membership Page or by calling 1-800-250-8040.

 

Should you have any questions regarding this guide, or about purebred dogs in general, contact our Client Services Department.

Our office hours are 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to Friday. Our telephone number is (416) 674-3699 or, send us an e-mail at information@ckc.ca and we will do everything possible to assist you.