In previous articles, we have seen what elements it is good to know, so that the adoption of a puppy, is not an act dictated by emotional impulse, but a conscious and responsible gesture.
We analyzed factors such as “price” and considered the importance that “pedigree” plays, when choosing a puppy. Today we will see what are the requirements, which it is good to consider, “before” choosing where to buy our puppy.
PROFESSIONAL or AMATEUR breeding: what is the difference?
From a legal point of view, the figure of the professional farmer is that of an agricultural entrepreneur who owns at least 5 broodmares and producing a minimum of 30 pups per year. On the contrary anyone, not falling into the above category, decides to breed his or her own purebred female, is considered a amateur breeder.
It seems clear to me, that beyond what the law says, to equate the figure of the amateur breeder, to that of the private individual who decides to make a litter, without doing any kind of selection nor having expertise in the matter, is paradoxical to say the least. The fact remains that one of the key aspects of adoption, concerns the choice of kennel from which to purchase the puppy.
As a Dog Educator, in writing this article, I have intentionally. neglected to dwell on aspects related to the breed selection, hoping that every breeder worth his salt is aware of the responsibility of an ethical type, which he assumes toward the dog and the future owner; preferring to give more relevance to those elements, which are too often not given the proper importance, but that they play a basic role in the prevention of behavioral disorders.
“IDEAL FARMING” in 7 key points
- First of all, it would be preferable not to limit oneself to visiting only one breeding farm, in order to avoid choosing without having parameters of comparison and to be wary “a priori” of pseudo-breeders offering puppies of all breeds, since very often, they come from Eastern countries or from battery farms.
- A “serious” bre eder usually specializes on 1 or 2 breeds that he knows thoroughly, not only morphologically but also behaviorally and motivationally, and breeds with the goal of improving the breed.
- Hygiene is certainly an important parameter, in assessing the level of care and attention that the breeder gives to his animals, but that is not all!
In making sure that the environment is appropriate for the dog’s mental and physical needs, it should be borne in mind that the space available should be commensurate with the number of dogs in the kennel and that they, should have the opportunity to spend at least part of the day free or in large enclosures.
In this regard, it is worth mentioning that puppies of mothers subjected to severe stress or constant noise exhibit chronic stress-oriented behavior from birth. - Are the pups with their mother? Although it is essential, give the mother the opportunity to get away from her puppies whenever she wants, it is good that she can spend some time with them. (see p. 6)
Some breeders tend to separate them too early, so as not to aesthetically spoil the mother’s udders, but it is good to know that early separation, may be the basis of behavioral pathologies (Hyperactivity-Hypersensitivity Syndrome). In addition, it should not be forgotten that for the development of a balanced puppy, the environment should be rich in stimulation and contact with human beings. For that reason, Avoid breeders who keep puppies in a basement or away from any human activity, and especially Avoid large breeding farms that are true “puppy factories.” - Are the parents visible? Seeing the parents of the puppies will give you an idea of how they might turn out behaviorally in adulthood as well. It goes without saying that while genetics is important, the environment and the experiences the puppy will go through will be crucial for harmonious behavioral development.
- A good breeder will NEVER give up puppies, before they are 60 days old! By this age, the dog will have had a chance to learn from its mother the social behavioral forms typical of its species and to recognize itself as such (it learns that it is a dog). Separating litter members before 60 days of age can result in serious consequences for the puppy’s behavioral development. For example: a dog that has not acquired the various forms of motor self-control (such as bite inhibition) will be difficult to train and likely destined to have behavior problems. In addition, if we consider that maternal antibodies begin to decline around 6 to 8 weeks of age, it will most likely not have been possible to set up the vaccine program and as a result, the stress brought about by being away from the known environment and the rest of the litter may make him more susceptible to disease. In contrast, late adoption (after the 3rd month) when associated with development in a poor stimulus environment can result in behavioral pathology (Sensory Deprivation Syndrome).
- Finally, the breeder must document that he or she has subjected the breeding stock to official diagnostic testing for genetic disorders to which the breed is predisposed, and avoid breeding individuals who, although free of hereditary disorders, exhibit behavioral disorders.
Upon adoption, puppies must be surrendered with:
- Pedigree request submitted to ENCI
- Certifying health booklet
- At least 1 vaccine (depending on the puppy’s age at adoption)
- Inoculated microchip
- Worming
- Certificate of good health issued by the veterinarian
Next week we will further explore the topic of “How to choose the right place” to get the right dog–don’t miss it!
Carla Beard
Sing To The Moon Dog Center
