We've all been tempted by that adorable little face looking back at us, but in reality buying puppies from a pet store is a very bad idea. A responsible breeder is your best bet for a healthy sheltie puppy who will be a quality companion for years to come. Equally bad is buying a dog from a "backyard breeder", an individual who breeds for profit and does not seek to better their dogs.

What is a reponsible breeder and why should I choose one?

1) Responsible breeders perform health checks on their dogs before ever breeding for puppies. Hips, eyes and breed specific diseases are all checked, both on the sire and dam's lineage. A responsible breeder understands the breed and works to prevent genetic diseases that can occur in their breed.

2) Responsible breeders will socialize their puppies to new people, sounds, surfaces, and places. Undersocialized shelties can be nervous dogs.

3) A responsible breeder knows the breed. He or she should be able to telll you why they bred those two particular dogs together and what benefits they hoped to get. You should have a chance to meet one or both parents. Beware of any breeder who refuses to show you their kennel area or adult dogs. They can answer questions you might have as a new puppy owner and can be a valuable reference for years to come.

How do you locate a good breeder?
Check the American Shetland Sheepdog Association's web site for breeder referrals, contact local breed clubs in your area, visit local breeders at dog shows or check the American Kennel Club's web site.

Remember, responsible breeders never sell puppies to pet stores!