How does one even begin to find a reputable breeder? It can be a confusing and seemingly overwhelming task. And with the proliferation of breeders now advertising on the Internet, it is not always easy to determine whether or not a breeder is reputable and responsible. What is most important to remember, however, is to be patient and to research well. Here are a few suggestions to get you started.

National Breed Clubs

Each AKC registered breed has a national organization formed to protect the breed. Many have a Code of Ethics to which members must subscribe. Most breed clubs maintain a list of breeders, organized by the area of the country in which they are located. If you are unfamiliar with the name of the national breed club in which you are interested, the AKC website maintains a list. To see if a breed club is listed, try the AKC website at www.akc.org

Regional Breed Clubs

Most breeds have regional clubs with an active membership. Many of these organizations also have breeder lists. In addition, if the club is localized, members will know of litters planned by others in the club, and can forward those names on to you. Local breeders may be able to put you in contact with the regional breed club; the AKC also lists some of these organizations.

Publications

Reputable breeders rarely advertise in the classified section of the local newspaper. However, many will publicize upcoming litters in magazines geared specifically toward dogs. Two publications that have extensive breeder lists are "Dog World" and the "AKC Gazette." In addition, many national breed organizations list breeders in their breed magazine. To subscribe or to purchase a copy, contact the magazine editor of the national breed club in which you have an interest.

Dog Show Catalogs

Many all-breed clubs list breeders in the catalogs purchased at their shows. The Detroit Kennel Club prints an extensive list of breeders each year. If you are attending a local show, check the catalog to see if there are breeders listed.

Dog Shows

Breeders can almost always be found ringside at a dog show. If there is a dog show in your area, check to see when the breed in which you are interested is scheduled to be shown. As most exhibitors are busy, not to mention stressed, just before entering the ring, it is best to wait until the dogs are finished showing before approaching their owners or handlers. Most exhibitors will be happy to tell you about their dogs, and may also be aware of other breeders who are planning litters.

Detroit Kennel Club Dog Shows

A benched dog show is perhaps the best place to meet and talk with breeders. Since the dogs are benched throughout the day, you have an opportunity to meet the dogs of specific breeders, and converse with a number of individuals about the breed in general, and their breeding plans in particular. Even if you are unable to spend enough time to receive all of the information you desire, contacts can be made so that future interviews can be planned.

Ann Arbor Kennel Club Breeder Directory

The Ann Arbor Kennel Club publishes an extensive breeder directory of local American Kennel Club breeders. Those listed in the breeder directory must have certain qualifications and answer a number of questions appropriately before being listed. The printed version of the directory is found in most Michigan vet offices, or can be purchased through the AAKC by contacting Camilla Thorne. The online version can be found at www.annarborkc.org

Word of Mouth

Most of the individuals you meet will not be the breeders of the dogs they own. Talk to a number of folks about their breeder experiences to get a sense of the ethics and reputation of a particular kennel. Look for familiar themes among the people you talk to. Then make an appointment with the breeders that appear to be universally respected.

Also remember that, whatever the resource, none can or will guarantee the reputation of a particular breeder. Only you can decide if a breeder is right for you.