Talk before reserving
Ask where the puppy lives, which people and sounds it meets, and how the mother and litter are cared for. A good conversation goes both ways: a responsible breeder also asks about your home, schedule and expectations. If every question must wait until after a deposit, pause. Do not choose from one photograph alone; a meeting and documentation reveal much more.
Ask about the parents
Ask which health checks the parents had, what the results were and why those checks were chosen. Testing programmes differ by country; an overseas list is not automatically a local rule. The IGCA publishes recommendations that can guide the conversation. Look for specific, verifiable answers rather than a general promise that every dog is healthy.
Documents and handover
Ask about pedigree, contract terms, handover age, veterinary records and contact after purchase. See documents before deciding and give yourself time to read them. Ask about the usual food and routine so the first week at home is not a chain of abrupt changes. A responsible person is willing to discuss the breed’s challenges as well as its charms.
Questions for yourself
Can you make time for a puppy’s adjustment, safe exercise and regular care? Who will help if you travel? Are you prepared for veterinary costs beyond food and clothing? Honest answers do not make you a bad owner; they help you choose the right moment. Buying starts with a listing, but living together lasts for years.
Sources
Breed facts were checked against these references. Editorial tips do not replace veterinary advice.
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