The Smart Way to Start Your Puppy Journey!
Learn how to choose a breeder who prioritizes health, temperament, and lifelong support—so your new companion thrives from day one.This course will take approximately 30 minutes to complete.
Learn more
About the course
About The Course
Choosing a puppy can feel overwhelming, but this course makes it simple. You’ll understand ethical breeding practices, gain confidence in finding the right puppy, and learn how to plan for their lifelong health and happiness. Packed with expert insights and practical tools, it helps you make informed, responsible choices from day one. Start your puppy journey with confidence. Sign up for the full course today!
Start your journey now!
Akila SarATHY
About me
Hello!
Product Designer
Meet Your Guide to Puppy Success
Hi, I’m Akila Sarathy! I’m a product designer who loves turning curiosity into practical solutions. Puppy Pathways grew out of my fascination with how people make big decisions, like bringing a puppy home, and my drive to help new puppy parents feel confident, informed, and prepared every step of the way. When I’m not designing learning experiences, you can find me exploring nature trails with my rescue pup, Jasper. I’m all about combining fun, thoughtful planning, and a touch of creativity, whether it’s in a project or a puppy’s training plan.
Start your journey now!
Your Puppy Journey
Start your Journey
Next
Are you ready for a puppy?
Why Does Breed Matter?
You might adore your friend's playful golden retriever or an Instagram influencer's dainty Chihuahua, but that doesn’t always mean that these breeds will be the right fit for you.
Dogs come in all different kinds of shapes and sizes, with different needs. Some breeds might need more space to run around and expend energy, while others might prefer a quieter environment.
As a first step, get to know what's out there by checking out American Kennel Club's resource on understanding breed characteristics.
Paw Fact!
how Do i find the right breed?
Some breeds like the Skye Terrier, Otterhound, and Norwegian Lundehund are in danger of extinction. As you research the best breed for you, think of opening your home to one of these lovely little fellas!
What do i do if im still unsure?
What is your lifestyle?
What life do you want with your dog?
What is your current lifestyle?
- Are you more active or laid-back?
- What does your daily schedule look like?
- What is the size of your home? For instance, do you live in a studio or on a farm?
- What are the weather and environmental conditions in your area?
- What is the size of your home?
- How much space do you have indoors and outside?
- Do you want a dog that's more social or independent
- Do you see yourself with a mellow dog or one with higher energy?
- Are you looking for a dog that has smarts? Or one that's just happy to be along for the ride?
CheckPoint!
Community members to speak to
Dog communities: Find local dog groups, either in person or online (like on Facebook or Reddit). These groups are great for getting tips, finding dog-friendly places, and connecting with other owners.
Ethical breeders: Every breed has a Parent clubs usually have a list of ethical breeders listed on their website. If you live in the same country as these breeders, check the list to find one and feel confident that you’re getting a puppy that has been health-tested and raised with love and care.
wHO SHOULD I AVOID?
People you should avoid:
Paw Fact!
You should avoid Pet stores, onlien sellers like Craigslist, and online sellers often get puppies from these types of breeders.
Backyard breeders are producers who unethically and irresponsibly produce dogs for profit. They don’t check for health problems appropriate behavior, with . These breeders often sell online or in parking lots to avoid rules.
Check your knowledge!
Puppy mills, where dogs live in small, dirty cages without vet help or play. These producers are for-profit and avoid showing their space or meeting in person.
Checkpoint!
Think before you act:
"Happiness is a warm puppy.”
Before falling head over heels in love with a breed you come across on Instagram, ask yourself:
- What are my daily routines and energy levels?
- Which breed traits match my lifestyle best?
- What resources can I use to learn more?
- Charles M. Schulz
Continue your journey
Next
What is an ethical breeder?
What is an Ethical Breeder?
An ethical breeder prioritizes the health, temperament, and long-term well-being of their dogs, not profit. They follow breed-specific health testing guidelines and support puppy owners for life.
What does that mean in practice?
Choosing an ethical breeder means:
- Lower risk of genetic diseases
- Better temperament and training
- Ongoing support and guidance
- Contributing to responsible dog ownership and breed preservation
- A focus on health & genetics
- A predictable temperament for puppies based on the dog's ancestory
- A prioritization of early socialization & training
Aren't these breders just in it for the money?
Why do breeders charge so much?
Ethical breeders rarely make a profit because they invest in health, temperament, and long-term support, which means higher upfront costs but better outcomes for dogs and owners such as:
- Quality over quantity (fewer litters per year)
- Vet care, food, supplies, and emergency funds
- Time spent matching puppies with the right homes
How do breeders spend money?
How do breeders spend their money?
Ethical breeders offer lifetime advice and support, or will take back dogs later in life if current owners can't care for them.Here’s where the money goes:
- Health testing like DNA screens, Prenatal care, and regular vet checks cost $1,000+ per dog
- Vaccinations and microchips usually cost $75–$100 per shot per puppy.
- Basic care like food and toys costs per litter are an average of $500+.
Even when puppies are priced between $2,000–$3,500, many ethical breeders just break even. Good breeders often lose money, though it’s not about making the most money, it’s about doing what’s right.
What does Health & genetics mean?
Health & Genetics
Many of the actions ethical breeders take are used to support the puppy’s health, temperament, and future success in your home. This includes health testing for both parents and helps ensure puppies won’t inherit serious genetic conditions like:
- Hip dysplasia (makes it painful for dogs to walk)
- Heart defects
- Eye disorders
Ethical breeders can spend upwards of $1500 per dog on these types of tests. Good Testing ensures:
- Healthy parents, which means overall healthier puppies
- Transparent records, which means a paper trail and peace of mind for owners
- Early detection, which means fewer surprise vet bills later
How much do genetic testing costs?
Predictability & Temperament
Choosing a dog with a known temperament traits means fewer mismatches, smoother training, and a better bond between you and your furry friend.
Ethical breeders don’t just breed for looks, they breed for personality. By studying the temperament of parents and grandparents, they can better predict:
- Energy levels
- Trainability
- Sociability with kids, pets, and strangers
- Internal motivation (often called a dog’s “drive”)
What DOES dRIVE ACTUALLY MEAN?
A Dog's Drive Means:
Drive refers to the instincts a breed was developed for over generations. For example, herding breeds like Australian Shepherds are wired to move and control livestock. When those instincts aren’t given a proper outlet, they can show up in everyday life, like herding children or nipping at heels. Understanding drive helps determine whether a dog will be happiest as a laid-back companion or thrive in an active home with training, work, or sports. This matters whether you want a couch cuddler or a future agility champ. Breeders often use temperament tests and behavioral assessments to match puppies with the right homes. These tests aren’t perfect, but they help avoid mismatches that lead to rehoming or behavioral issues. Predictability means fewer surprises and a better fit for your lifestyle.
What does early socialization mean?
Early Socialization
Well-socialized puppies are more confident, easier to train, and less likely to develop anxiety or aggression later in life or when scared.
The first few weeks of a puppy's life shape a lifetime. From birth to 8 weeks, puppies go through critical learning windows. Responsible breeders don’t wait for new owners to start training. The puppy's socialization begins soon after birth. Early experiences help puppies grow into adaptable, emotionally balanced dogs with your continued dedication.
What does this look like?
Early Socialization In Practice
Begin early neurological stimulation (ENS) protocol, a series of exercises from days 3–16, which help boost stress tolerance, heart health, and disease resistance. Control exposure to sounds, surfaces, and objects, which builds curiosity and reduces fear. Introduce positive human interaction, which teaches puppies that touch, grooming, and handling are safe and enjoyable. Provide consistency and gentle reinforcement to help puppies learn boundaries without fear.These actions aren't just for fun, they're science-backed. Programs like ENS help puppies grow into resilient, well-adjusted adult dogs.
See if you're ready!
Checkpoint!
When Should You Contact Breeders?
The trick is to figure out what you actually want in a dog, then see which breed fits you best. Answer the following before welcoming a puppy into your life:
- What do you need your dog to do every day in your real life?
- How do you want to bond with your dog?: cuddling, teaching tricks, going on walks, hiking, competitve sports?
- How much time and money can you put toward brushing, grooming, and exercise?
Continue your journey
Next
What does health- testing mean?
What is Health Testing?
Paw Fact!
“Health-tested” means the breeder has screened both the mother and father for common inherited conditions in their breed. Typical tests include:
- Hip and elbow checks
- Eye exams
- DNA tests for genetic conditions
These tests are done with veterinarians or genetic labs to lower the chance of passing on diseases. Even with fully tested parents, some conditions can still appear in puppies because some are hard to detect, involve multiple genes, or arise from new mutations. Health testing reduces risk but doesn’t guarantee a healthy puppy.
Even when parent dogs are fully health-tested, some genetic conditions may still appear in puppies because not all diseases have reliable tests — and some traits are influenced by multiple genes. Health testing reduces risk but does not guarantee a puppy will be free of all health issues.
Is there breed specific health-testing?
How does health testing effect designer breeds?
Organizations like Doggit rank testing into tiers such as 'PRECIOUS METALS LOOK UP" based on how many tests are done, how transparent the results are, and whether the breeder participates in research. When evaluating a breeder, make sure all recommended tests for the breed have been completed and that results are verified or publicly available, since transparency is just as important as the testing itself.
Not All Health Testing Is the Same
Designer Breeds & Health Testing
Designer breeds, like Labradoodles, should follow the same principles as purebreds. Both parent breeds must be screened for breed-specific conditions before breeding. Learn more about AKC Health Testing Requirements.
For example:
- Labrador: hips, elbows, eyes, progressive retinal atrophy
- Poodle: hips, elbows, eyes, von Willebrand’s disease
Even crossing two breeds doesn't automatically prevent genetic problems. A health-tested doodle is only as reliable as the testing of its parents. Buyers can trust a litter when the breeder provides full documentation and transparent results.
Paw Fact!
Some programs track health trends across breeds, helping breeders make better decisions over time.
What doesn't health testing cover?
What Health Testing Doesn’t Cover?
Why “health-tested” isn't a guarantee:
Health testing is necessary but not sufficient for ethical breeding. Breeders must also consider temperament, environment, and long-term breed health.
- Some diseases aren't testable.
- Test results can expire or be falsified.
- It only applies to tested conditions.
Not every genetic disorder has a test yet, and “health-tested clear” parents don't guarantee problem-free puppies. Environmental factors, new mutations, and complex gene interactions all play a role. Over-reliance on “clear” dogs can also reduce genetic diversity, which creates other risks.
how to check if a breeder is health testing
Which breed-specific health tests do you perform?
Can you provide documented results for both sire and dam? When were they done?
Questions to Ask a Breeder
Are results publicly registered (OFA, CHIC etc.)?
If this is all overwhelming, don't panic! Here are some questions you can ask a breeder before you commit:
See if you're ready!
What health guarantees do you offer for the puppies?
Can you provide references from previous buyers?
Take Action
Even with health-tested parents, ongoing care is essential: good nutrition, vet visits, and proper socialization will help your puppy thrive.
Continue your journey
Next
Why go to a breeder anyway?
Making an Inquiry
What should I do next?
Things you'll want to do:
Things you'll want to see:
Research breeds to match energy level, temperament, and needs to your lifestyle.
Health Tesing: Expect transparency about health screenings and genetic testing. Reputable breeders provide documentation for tests like OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) certifications and CERF (Canine Eye Registration Foundation) results.
Prepare questions about health testing, socialization practices, and parent dog temperament.
Talk to vets and trainers for unbiased advice and to prepare for your conversation.
Ongoing support: Good breeders remain a resource for training advice, health concerns, and breed-specific guidance.
Consider alternatives like breed-specific rescues or responsible adoption centers if money and time are factors.
Submitting an Application
Paw Fact!
Responsible breeders screen buyers to match the right puppy to the right home and avoid the dog being sent to the shelter or being given back.
The first contact with a breeder sets the tone for your relationship. Responsible breeders respond promptly and professionally. Potential breeders in the United States usually start off by having you fill out an application, much like shelters and rescues do. This process can vary slightly from country to country.
Why fill out an application?
what's after the application?
Filling out an application ensures that when a litter is available, breeders can help you choose a puppy based on:
- Temperament and behavior
- Compatibility with your lifestyle
- Reviewing health and vaccination records
Review and Sign a Contract
Once your application is approved, many breeders ask you to put down a deposit and sign a contract.
If you're not signing it at this stage, you may ask to review it.
This contract ensures that if you are unable to take care of the dog in the future, you'll reach out to them to return the dog.
Paw Fact!
Contracts protect both the puppy and the buyer. Ensuring clarity for both parties helps make sure everyone is on the same page and there are no surprises later. Learn more about AKC puppy contracts and guarantees.Without these agreements in place, you risk:
- Being pressured to commit quickly without reflection.
- Running into problems later, such as disputes over health guarantees or ownership, because there’s no written contract to reference
What should a Contract include?
Contracts should include:
- Health guarantees and coverage
- Return policies if the puppy cannot stay in the home
- Buyer responsibilities, like what to do in case you're unable to keep the dog
- Parent health testing (hips, elbows, eyes, breed-specific genetic tests)
- Vaccinations and deworming
- Registration papers (AKC or another recognized registry)
Transparency ensures informed decisions and safeguards your puppy’s.
When can i visit my puppy?
Visiting and Selecting Your Pet
When you visit the breeder, look out for:
- Clean, safe environments
- Healthy parent dogs interact normally with puppies
- Early socialization: gentle handling, exposure to household sounds
What you can ask about:
- Breed-specific traits and temperament
- Health testing of parent dogs
- Litter planning and availability
It’s normal for breeders to ask you questions, too. This helps ensure puppies go to safe, prepared homes.
More info
Let's check your knowledge
Visiting and Selecting Your Pet
When you visit the breeder, look out for:
- Clean, safe environments
- Healthy parent dogs interact normally with puppies
- Early socialization: gentle handling, exposure to household sounds
What you can ask about:
- Breed-specific traits and temperament
- Health testing of parent dogs
- Litter planning and availability
It’s normal for breeders to ask you questions, too. This helps ensure puppies go to safe, prepared homes.
More info
Let's check your knowledge
Checkpoint!
Pickup & Ongoing Support: Green Flags
- Guide you on nutrition and training
- Help your puppy adjust to its new home
- Remain available for support after the sale
What are some red flags?
Pickup & Ongoing Support: Red Flags
- Dirty, scruffy fur coat
- Dogs or puppies that are aggressive, vicious, anti-social, or overly fearful
- Dogs living in stacked cages, dark enviroments that aren't well-lit or well ventilated, climate controlled or clean
- No shelter from rain, heat, or cold
- Water unavailable, dirty, or frozen
- Too thin, too heavy, or generally unhealthy
- Too many animals to properly care for, exercise, or socialize
Check out these resources
Thank You!
Go Back to the Beginning
Dowload your certifcation
Dowload your Puppy Prep checklist
Dowload your breeder checklist
Dogg!t: A platform that connects people with responsible breeders to help them find healthy, well-matched dogs.
Companion Dog Project: A group that helps people find breeders who focus on making great family companions.
Paw Fact!
Doodles (like Labradoodles or Goldendoodles) are friendly, often fluffy, and loved for being easy to live with. But the same qualities people love in doodles can be found in other breeds like Poodles or rarer breeds like Lowchen, too!
Check out these Breed Clubs for more info:
- The Poodle Club of America
- The Löwchen Club of America
More resources
Health Clearances - From Doggit
What Is Health Testing for Dogs? - From AKC
What breeders may ask about:
- A questionnaire about your lifestyle and experience
- Discussion about your home environment
- References from previous pet ownership
This process ensures puppies are matched to homes that can provide proper care.
Why is health testing important for puppies?
Imagine scrolling through breeders online and spotting a “health-tested” badge. Your heart leaps, does this mean the puppy will be healthy for life? Not exactly. Health testing is a helpful step, but it is not a guarantee. Understanding what it involves, and where it falls short, can save you frustration, expense, and heartbreak down the line.
Learn to Ask the Right Questions
Why does the breeder you choose matter?
Bringing a puppy home from a breeder isn’t just a transaction it’s the start of a lifelong relationship with your breeder. A responsible breeder is more than a seller; they are a mentor and a resource throughout your dog’s life.
Red flags to watch for:
- No health documentation or unwillingness to share results.
- Pressure to commit quickly without reflection.
- Absence of a written contract.
Learn to Choose Responsibly
Paw Fact!
Because ethical breeders spend lots of time socializing, caring for, and observing their puppies, they'll be able to recommend the puppy most likely to fit best into your life.
Remember:
When you see “health-tested”, it's a positive sign, but it's not the end of the conversation. It should spark questions, not blind faith. Use a combination of testing, transparency, and breeding strategy to evaluate breeders. Puppies live 10–15+ years, so clarity is crucial.
What breeders may ask about:
- A questionnaire about your lifestyle and experience
- Discussion about your home environment
- References from previous pet ownership
This process ensures puppies are matched to homes that can provide proper care.
Looking for a cute puppy?
It’s not just about cute looks or fun hashtags. Choosing a dog to bring home is a big decision. Finding the right fit for your lifestyle and your dog’s needs means a happier dog and a happier you!Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, with the right resources and a little self-reflection, you’ll be on your way to finding the perfect puppy to fall in love with!
Learn before you buy
What is an Ethical Breeder?
You’ve decided to work with an ethical breeder, whether because you need a specific breed for service work, or you simply feel drawn to a certain temperament or look. But what exactly is an Ethical Breeder? Turns out, there’s a lot that goes into your puppy before you even get to hold the ball of fur.
Learn What You’re Paying For
Puppy Pathways
Akila Sarathy
Created on November 4, 2025
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Transcript
The Smart Way to Start Your Puppy Journey!
Learn how to choose a breeder who prioritizes health, temperament, and lifelong support—so your new companion thrives from day one.This course will take approximately 30 minutes to complete.
Learn more
About the course
About The Course
Choosing a puppy can feel overwhelming, but this course makes it simple. You’ll understand ethical breeding practices, gain confidence in finding the right puppy, and learn how to plan for their lifelong health and happiness. Packed with expert insights and practical tools, it helps you make informed, responsible choices from day one. Start your puppy journey with confidence. Sign up for the full course today!
Start your journey now!
Akila SarATHY
About me
Hello!
Product Designer
Meet Your Guide to Puppy Success
Hi, I’m Akila Sarathy! I’m a product designer who loves turning curiosity into practical solutions. Puppy Pathways grew out of my fascination with how people make big decisions, like bringing a puppy home, and my drive to help new puppy parents feel confident, informed, and prepared every step of the way. When I’m not designing learning experiences, you can find me exploring nature trails with my rescue pup, Jasper. I’m all about combining fun, thoughtful planning, and a touch of creativity, whether it’s in a project or a puppy’s training plan.
Start your journey now!
Your Puppy Journey
Start your Journey
Next
Are you ready for a puppy?
Why Does Breed Matter?
You might adore your friend's playful golden retriever or an Instagram influencer's dainty Chihuahua, but that doesn’t always mean that these breeds will be the right fit for you. Dogs come in all different kinds of shapes and sizes, with different needs. Some breeds might need more space to run around and expend energy, while others might prefer a quieter environment. As a first step, get to know what's out there by checking out American Kennel Club's resource on understanding breed characteristics.
Paw Fact!
how Do i find the right breed?
Some breeds like the Skye Terrier, Otterhound, and Norwegian Lundehund are in danger of extinction. As you research the best breed for you, think of opening your home to one of these lovely little fellas!
What do i do if im still unsure?
What is your lifestyle?
What life do you want with your dog?
What is your current lifestyle?
CheckPoint!
Community members to speak to
Dog communities: Find local dog groups, either in person or online (like on Facebook or Reddit). These groups are great for getting tips, finding dog-friendly places, and connecting with other owners.
Ethical breeders: Every breed has a Parent clubs usually have a list of ethical breeders listed on their website. If you live in the same country as these breeders, check the list to find one and feel confident that you’re getting a puppy that has been health-tested and raised with love and care.
wHO SHOULD I AVOID?
People you should avoid:
Paw Fact!
You should avoid Pet stores, onlien sellers like Craigslist, and online sellers often get puppies from these types of breeders.
Backyard breeders are producers who unethically and irresponsibly produce dogs for profit. They don’t check for health problems appropriate behavior, with . These breeders often sell online or in parking lots to avoid rules.
Check your knowledge!
Puppy mills, where dogs live in small, dirty cages without vet help or play. These producers are for-profit and avoid showing their space or meeting in person.
Checkpoint!
Think before you act:
"Happiness is a warm puppy.”
Before falling head over heels in love with a breed you come across on Instagram, ask yourself:
- Charles M. Schulz
Continue your journey
Next
What is an ethical breeder?
What is an Ethical Breeder?
An ethical breeder prioritizes the health, temperament, and long-term well-being of their dogs, not profit. They follow breed-specific health testing guidelines and support puppy owners for life.
What does that mean in practice?
Choosing an ethical breeder means:
Aren't these breders just in it for the money?
Why do breeders charge so much?
Ethical breeders rarely make a profit because they invest in health, temperament, and long-term support, which means higher upfront costs but better outcomes for dogs and owners such as:
How do breeders spend money?
How do breeders spend their money?
Ethical breeders offer lifetime advice and support, or will take back dogs later in life if current owners can't care for them.Here’s where the money goes:
- Vaccinations and microchips usually cost $75–$100 per shot per puppy.
- Basic care like food and toys costs per litter are an average of $500+.
Even when puppies are priced between $2,000–$3,500, many ethical breeders just break even. Good breeders often lose money, though it’s not about making the most money, it’s about doing what’s right.What does Health & genetics mean?
Health & Genetics
Many of the actions ethical breeders take are used to support the puppy’s health, temperament, and future success in your home. This includes health testing for both parents and helps ensure puppies won’t inherit serious genetic conditions like:
- Hip dysplasia (makes it painful for dogs to walk)
- Heart defects
- Eye disorders
Ethical breeders can spend upwards of $1500 per dog on these types of tests. Good Testing ensures:How much do genetic testing costs?
Predictability & Temperament
Choosing a dog with a known temperament traits means fewer mismatches, smoother training, and a better bond between you and your furry friend. Ethical breeders don’t just breed for looks, they breed for personality. By studying the temperament of parents and grandparents, they can better predict:
What DOES dRIVE ACTUALLY MEAN?
A Dog's Drive Means:
Drive refers to the instincts a breed was developed for over generations. For example, herding breeds like Australian Shepherds are wired to move and control livestock. When those instincts aren’t given a proper outlet, they can show up in everyday life, like herding children or nipping at heels. Understanding drive helps determine whether a dog will be happiest as a laid-back companion or thrive in an active home with training, work, or sports. This matters whether you want a couch cuddler or a future agility champ. Breeders often use temperament tests and behavioral assessments to match puppies with the right homes. These tests aren’t perfect, but they help avoid mismatches that lead to rehoming or behavioral issues. Predictability means fewer surprises and a better fit for your lifestyle.
What does early socialization mean?
Early Socialization
Well-socialized puppies are more confident, easier to train, and less likely to develop anxiety or aggression later in life or when scared. The first few weeks of a puppy's life shape a lifetime. From birth to 8 weeks, puppies go through critical learning windows. Responsible breeders don’t wait for new owners to start training. The puppy's socialization begins soon after birth. Early experiences help puppies grow into adaptable, emotionally balanced dogs with your continued dedication.
What does this look like?
Early Socialization In Practice
Begin early neurological stimulation (ENS) protocol, a series of exercises from days 3–16, which help boost stress tolerance, heart health, and disease resistance. Control exposure to sounds, surfaces, and objects, which builds curiosity and reduces fear. Introduce positive human interaction, which teaches puppies that touch, grooming, and handling are safe and enjoyable. Provide consistency and gentle reinforcement to help puppies learn boundaries without fear.These actions aren't just for fun, they're science-backed. Programs like ENS help puppies grow into resilient, well-adjusted adult dogs.
See if you're ready!
Checkpoint!
When Should You Contact Breeders?
The trick is to figure out what you actually want in a dog, then see which breed fits you best. Answer the following before welcoming a puppy into your life:
Continue your journey
Next
What does health- testing mean?
What is Health Testing?
Paw Fact!
“Health-tested” means the breeder has screened both the mother and father for common inherited conditions in their breed. Typical tests include:
- Hip and elbow checks
- Eye exams
- DNA tests for genetic conditions
These tests are done with veterinarians or genetic labs to lower the chance of passing on diseases. Even with fully tested parents, some conditions can still appear in puppies because some are hard to detect, involve multiple genes, or arise from new mutations. Health testing reduces risk but doesn’t guarantee a healthy puppy.Even when parent dogs are fully health-tested, some genetic conditions may still appear in puppies because not all diseases have reliable tests — and some traits are influenced by multiple genes. Health testing reduces risk but does not guarantee a puppy will be free of all health issues.
Is there breed specific health-testing?
How does health testing effect designer breeds?
Organizations like Doggit rank testing into tiers such as 'PRECIOUS METALS LOOK UP" based on how many tests are done, how transparent the results are, and whether the breeder participates in research. When evaluating a breeder, make sure all recommended tests for the breed have been completed and that results are verified or publicly available, since transparency is just as important as the testing itself.
Not All Health Testing Is the Same
Designer Breeds & Health Testing
Designer breeds, like Labradoodles, should follow the same principles as purebreds. Both parent breeds must be screened for breed-specific conditions before breeding. Learn more about AKC Health Testing Requirements. For example:
- Labrador: hips, elbows, eyes, progressive retinal atrophy
- Poodle: hips, elbows, eyes, von Willebrand’s disease
Even crossing two breeds doesn't automatically prevent genetic problems. A health-tested doodle is only as reliable as the testing of its parents. Buyers can trust a litter when the breeder provides full documentation and transparent results.Paw Fact!
Some programs track health trends across breeds, helping breeders make better decisions over time.
What doesn't health testing cover?
What Health Testing Doesn’t Cover?
Why “health-tested” isn't a guarantee:
Health testing is necessary but not sufficient for ethical breeding. Breeders must also consider temperament, environment, and long-term breed health.
Not every genetic disorder has a test yet, and “health-tested clear” parents don't guarantee problem-free puppies. Environmental factors, new mutations, and complex gene interactions all play a role. Over-reliance on “clear” dogs can also reduce genetic diversity, which creates other risks.
how to check if a breeder is health testing
Which breed-specific health tests do you perform?
Can you provide documented results for both sire and dam? When were they done?
Questions to Ask a Breeder
Are results publicly registered (OFA, CHIC etc.)?
If this is all overwhelming, don't panic! Here are some questions you can ask a breeder before you commit:
See if you're ready!
What health guarantees do you offer for the puppies?
Can you provide references from previous buyers?
Take Action
Even with health-tested parents, ongoing care is essential: good nutrition, vet visits, and proper socialization will help your puppy thrive.
Continue your journey
Next
Why go to a breeder anyway?
Making an Inquiry
What should I do next?
Things you'll want to do:
Things you'll want to see:
Research breeds to match energy level, temperament, and needs to your lifestyle.
Health Tesing: Expect transparency about health screenings and genetic testing. Reputable breeders provide documentation for tests like OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) certifications and CERF (Canine Eye Registration Foundation) results.
Prepare questions about health testing, socialization practices, and parent dog temperament.
Talk to vets and trainers for unbiased advice and to prepare for your conversation.
Ongoing support: Good breeders remain a resource for training advice, health concerns, and breed-specific guidance.
Consider alternatives like breed-specific rescues or responsible adoption centers if money and time are factors.
Submitting an Application
Paw Fact!
Responsible breeders screen buyers to match the right puppy to the right home and avoid the dog being sent to the shelter or being given back.
The first contact with a breeder sets the tone for your relationship. Responsible breeders respond promptly and professionally. Potential breeders in the United States usually start off by having you fill out an application, much like shelters and rescues do. This process can vary slightly from country to country.
Why fill out an application?
what's after the application?
Filling out an application ensures that when a litter is available, breeders can help you choose a puppy based on:
Review and Sign a Contract
Once your application is approved, many breeders ask you to put down a deposit and sign a contract. If you're not signing it at this stage, you may ask to review it. This contract ensures that if you are unable to take care of the dog in the future, you'll reach out to them to return the dog.
Paw Fact!
Contracts protect both the puppy and the buyer. Ensuring clarity for both parties helps make sure everyone is on the same page and there are no surprises later. Learn more about AKC puppy contracts and guarantees.Without these agreements in place, you risk:
What should a Contract include?
Contracts should include:
- Health guarantees and coverage
- Return policies if the puppy cannot stay in the home
- Buyer responsibilities, like what to do in case you're unable to keep the dog
- Parent health testing (hips, elbows, eyes, breed-specific genetic tests)
- Vaccinations and deworming
- Registration papers (AKC or another recognized registry)
Transparency ensures informed decisions and safeguards your puppy’s.When can i visit my puppy?
Visiting and Selecting Your Pet
When you visit the breeder, look out for:
- Clean, safe environments
- Healthy parent dogs interact normally with puppies
- Early socialization: gentle handling, exposure to household sounds
What you can ask about:- Breed-specific traits and temperament
- Health testing of parent dogs
- Litter planning and availability
It’s normal for breeders to ask you questions, too. This helps ensure puppies go to safe, prepared homes.More info
Let's check your knowledge
Visiting and Selecting Your Pet
When you visit the breeder, look out for:
- Clean, safe environments
- Healthy parent dogs interact normally with puppies
- Early socialization: gentle handling, exposure to household sounds
What you can ask about:- Breed-specific traits and temperament
- Health testing of parent dogs
- Litter planning and availability
It’s normal for breeders to ask you questions, too. This helps ensure puppies go to safe, prepared homes.More info
Let's check your knowledge
Checkpoint!
Pickup & Ongoing Support: Green Flags
What are some red flags?
Pickup & Ongoing Support: Red Flags
Check out these resources
Thank You!
Go Back to the Beginning
Dowload your certifcation
Dowload your Puppy Prep checklist
Dowload your breeder checklist
Dogg!t: A platform that connects people with responsible breeders to help them find healthy, well-matched dogs.
Companion Dog Project: A group that helps people find breeders who focus on making great family companions.
Paw Fact!
Doodles (like Labradoodles or Goldendoodles) are friendly, often fluffy, and loved for being easy to live with. But the same qualities people love in doodles can be found in other breeds like Poodles or rarer breeds like Lowchen, too!
Check out these Breed Clubs for more info:
More resources
Health Clearances - From Doggit
What Is Health Testing for Dogs? - From AKC
What breeders may ask about:
- A questionnaire about your lifestyle and experience
- Discussion about your home environment
- References from previous pet ownership
This process ensures puppies are matched to homes that can provide proper care.Why is health testing important for puppies?
Imagine scrolling through breeders online and spotting a “health-tested” badge. Your heart leaps, does this mean the puppy will be healthy for life? Not exactly. Health testing is a helpful step, but it is not a guarantee. Understanding what it involves, and where it falls short, can save you frustration, expense, and heartbreak down the line.
Learn to Ask the Right Questions
Why does the breeder you choose matter?
Bringing a puppy home from a breeder isn’t just a transaction it’s the start of a lifelong relationship with your breeder. A responsible breeder is more than a seller; they are a mentor and a resource throughout your dog’s life.
Red flags to watch for:
Learn to Choose Responsibly
Paw Fact!
Because ethical breeders spend lots of time socializing, caring for, and observing their puppies, they'll be able to recommend the puppy most likely to fit best into your life.
Remember:
When you see “health-tested”, it's a positive sign, but it's not the end of the conversation. It should spark questions, not blind faith. Use a combination of testing, transparency, and breeding strategy to evaluate breeders. Puppies live 10–15+ years, so clarity is crucial.
What breeders may ask about:
- A questionnaire about your lifestyle and experience
- Discussion about your home environment
- References from previous pet ownership
This process ensures puppies are matched to homes that can provide proper care.Looking for a cute puppy?
It’s not just about cute looks or fun hashtags. Choosing a dog to bring home is a big decision. Finding the right fit for your lifestyle and your dog’s needs means a happier dog and a happier you!Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, with the right resources and a little self-reflection, you’ll be on your way to finding the perfect puppy to fall in love with!
Learn before you buy
What is an Ethical Breeder?
You’ve decided to work with an ethical breeder, whether because you need a specific breed for service work, or you simply feel drawn to a certain temperament or look. But what exactly is an Ethical Breeder? Turns out, there’s a lot that goes into your puppy before you even get to hold the ball of fur.
Learn What You’re Paying For