NEVER:
BEWARE OF:
All breeders are NOT equal. There are many people who breed and sell dogs simply for profit. You should look for a responsible breeder who is dedicated to attaining the ideal in breed type, health and temperament. These breeders are members of recognized dog clubs that seek to protect and preserve the future of the breed. The BMDCA On-Line Breeder Referral is a good source for locating a reliable breeder.
Responsible breeders register their dogs with The Berner-Garde Foundation and regularly submit health-test and evaluation results. This public database is a free tool for anyone interested in selecting a responsible breeder and/or searching for a healthy line of dogs. The BMDCA Info Series explains how to best use this valuable database.
A responsible breeder will:
A responsible breeder will not:
Resources for finding a breeder, your first stop should be BMDCA On-Line Breeder Referral
- BUY FROM A PET STORE
- BUY FROM A BROKER (one who buys dogs and then resells them immediately for a profit)
- BUY FROM A MIDDLEMAN
BEWARE OF:
- OF INTERNET SALES - Use the internet to obtain data about the breed, but be sure to use only legitimate sites for locating responsible breeders. The Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America web site (www.BMDCA.org) is the best place to start to learn about buying a Bernese Mountain Dog. The BMDCA Info Series details exactly how to buy a Bernese Mountain Dog.
- OF UNRELIABLE ONLINE REGISTRIES FOR PUPPY MILLS - There are several online registries which are sadly, essentially scams for puppy mills and unreputable breeders. Look for AKC registration. The American Kennel Club (AKC) was founded in 1884, and is the most recognized purebred dog organization in the U. S. The BMDCA is a Member Club. It does not endorse any other club as a registry except foreign registries accepted by the AKC (ex. The Canadian Kennel Club).
All breeders are NOT equal. There are many people who breed and sell dogs simply for profit. You should look for a responsible breeder who is dedicated to attaining the ideal in breed type, health and temperament. These breeders are members of recognized dog clubs that seek to protect and preserve the future of the breed. The BMDCA On-Line Breeder Referral is a good source for locating a reliable breeder.
Responsible breeders register their dogs with The Berner-Garde Foundation and regularly submit health-test and evaluation results. This public database is a free tool for anyone interested in selecting a responsible breeder and/or searching for a healthy line of dogs. The BMDCA Info Series explains how to best use this valuable database.
A responsible breeder will:
- want to know about the potential puppy owner (PPO) to ensure the placement of the dog is a good match and to determine that the PPO will be committed to providing the level of care needed by this breed
- encourage PPO to visit the kennel to see the parent(s) and puppies; ask questions; obtain information about the contracts, agreements and guarantees for their dogs and, and learn about the care requirements of this breed
- show evidence of family history, including titles, tests, and health certificates
- readily explain breeding goals and practices
- demonstrate a long-term interest in the dog’s development and offer to take him back if conditions warrant
A responsible breeder will not:
- sell puppies under the age of 8 weeks
- rush a decision to purchase or require deposit before providing health data, family data, or contract information
- agree to sell a puppy without getting to know prospective owner
- refuse to allow PPO to visit living area for the dogs or meet the parent(s) of the litter
- make any general statements regarding health or pedigree without providing proof
Resources for finding a breeder, your first stop should be BMDCA On-Line Breeder Referral