Hold your breeder to and unreasonably high standard. Buying a puppy from a less-than-reasonable breeder encourages that breeder to continue making contributions to the pet overpopulation problem. If you do buy form a breeder, be sure to buy form one who meets the description above as closely as possible.

Don’t fall into the “fad breed” trap. Learn about the breed that appeals to you – don’t get a Jack Russell Terrier because of Wishbone, a Border Collie because of “Babe,” or a Siberian Husky because you liked “Snow Dogs.” All three of those breeds can present above average challenges to the novice dog owner.

Watch out for “breeder deals.” Unscrupulous breeders often try to unload their unsold adolescent pups who are now beyond the “cute” stage, or their “used up” breeding stock, with some story about how the dog was a show prospect who didn’t quite make it, and he’s willing to give you a really good deal. In fact, these dogs are often poorly socialized, have no training whatsoever, and are a real liability to the breeder, who should be paying you to take the dog off of their hands. If anything the breeder tells you sounds “off,” it probably is. If you do take one of these breeder deals, be prepared to invest in the services of a good behavior consultant.

Avoid unreasonable expectations. Not every Collie can grow up to be Lassie. If your German Shepard pup’s ears never stand tall like they are supposed to, your Bichon Frise never makes it to Madison Square Garden, or your Australian Kelpie is afraid of cows, you will love her despite her flaws, and fulfill your commitment to love and keep her until death do you part?

-Whole Dog Journal May 2002