What to look for in
selecting a breeder:
Buy from a responsible and
well respected breeder. Responsible breeders are concerned with
the betterment of the breed and the health and welfare of the puppies.
They work on breeding out hereditary diseases that might affect
their breed. Screen the breeder by asking to see at least one
parent of the puppy. See how the dogs in the breeder's home
interact with your breeder. Are they friendly and outgoing or do
they shy away? Do the puppies appear healthy and friendly? Are the
premises clean? Does the breeder willingly share information and
ideas about the care and training? Will the breeder give you names
of other puppy buyers as references?
Before you buy, make
sure the breeder gives you a written sales agreement to be signed by
both buyer and seller. Review the sales agreement before you sign it.
The sales agreement should include the names of the sire and dam and
their AKC registration numbers, and a brief description of the puppy
(sex, color, pet or show quality puppy). It should also contain the
names, addresses and telephone numbers of the buyer and seller as well
as some sort of guarantee regarding the puppy's health. The health
guarantee should allow you to have the puppy checked by a veterinarian
of your choice and should set forth terms and a reasonable time period
for returning the puppy should there be a health problem. If there is a
problem, notify the breeder immediately and follow it up in
writing.
When an advance deposit is
required by the breeder, be sure you understand the terms, including any
refund policy or conditions. The deposit may be handled as a separate
written agreement.
If you are buying a pet
quality puppy, do understand a breeder's concern about requiring spaying
and neutering of the puppy and cooperate accordingly. Ask the breeder
about AKC's limited registration option which allows the breeder to
reverse show or breeding restrictions if at a later date the puppy shows
unusual promise. The responsible breeder will also be screening you,
looking for the best home for each puppy.
Unless there are
extenuating circumstances, a breeder should furnish you with an AKC
litter paper for a puppy or an individual AKC registration paper for an
older dog. You should receive at least a three-generation pedigree and a
record of innoculations and wormings the animal has received. If you
state to the breeder that you are interested in pet quality, please do
not expect, at a later date, that this dog will be a good breeding
specimen or show dog. Most breeders price their puppies according to
whether they are show prospects or pet quality.
Many breeders of Silky
Terriers have waiting lists for future pet buyers. You may find, as you
search for your new family pet, that litter after litter is "spoken
for". Please do not give up and do consider putting your own name on
your chosen breeder's waiting list. It is seldom possible to start your
search for a pup in May and take your pup home in June.
