Guidelines when purchasing a purebred dog

• Contact the national breed club of the breed you are interested in purchasing, for a list of reputable breeders you can contact as well as information about the genetic concerns of that particular breed. This information is available from the Canadian Kennel Club at no charge. Their address is:
  Commerce Park, 89 Skyway Avenue, Suite 100
  Etobicoke, Ontario M9W 6R4
  (416) 675-5511
  Web Site: www.ckc.ca

• Ask the breeder for copies of  both the sire’s and dam’s OFA certificates. OFA is the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. This foundation certifies dogs clear of hip dysplasia which is ( usually ) an inherited malformation of the hips.
  Web Site: www.offa.org
  The University of Guelph also certifies dogs.

• Ask to see current ( within one year ) eye reports on each parent which certifies that each parent is clinically clear of any inherited eye disorders such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy or Cataracts. These reports should be signed by a Veterinary Ophthalmologist.

• Most breeding dogs are blood tested, as well, for any inherited blood disorders such as Hypothyroidism. Ask to see these too.

If a breeder CANNOT supply these certificates, DO NOT purchase the puppy!!!  

Copyright © 2005 Daria Edgecombe