Where to find reputable breeders

[sandi_84]

OH and I will be looking for dogs next year. He would like to buy a puppy but he's still torn about which breed.
I have noidea how to go about finding a good breeder in Scotland, could someone point me in the right direction please?

I think he will choose between a labrador, spaniel breed or terrier breed as those are the breeds that come up most in conversation. The sort of dog he would like would primarily be a family dog so must be able to switch off and have quiet/cuddle time but would also be going out with him when he goes to work (farrier). He also shoots occasionally so he would be interested in training the dog for that, however that is very low on the want list.

 

[sandi_84]

We'd be open to Alternate breed suggestions but don't want anything too big.

 

[satinbaze]

The flatcoated retriever society has a litter recorder that lists all the litters of reputable breeders (all health checks, follow code of ethics etc) they also know which breeders have the type of pups suited to your situation. Pet, show, work or combinations of all.
I think other breeds have similar schemes

 

[Clodagh]

Do you know anyone that shoots? Word of mouth is a good start.

 

[sandi_84]

Yes we do would they likely know breeders?

 

[CinnamonChristmasCookie]

Yes, but working dogs often have no health testing. If you're looking for a lab or spaniel, then I wouldn't touch one without health testing, which will be on the Kennel Club website under sire and dam if the litter is already on the ground. Saying that, working dogs are what I'd look for next time round and I found my bil a cracking springer pup on a Gun dogs site. There are loads.

Labs and spaniels are both known for hip dysplasia, so I'd be looking at hip scores and elbow scores if possible.

On the KC website, search for an Assured breeder (that doesn't necessarily mean they're amazing) but might help. Join a lab or spaniel group for advice and do your research.

 

[sandi_84]

Thanks CT it was the health issues i was worried about. I've only ever had rescues so never bought a puppy before

 

[Clodagh]

All our working labs we bought through word of mouth and recommendations and all of them are health tested. Saying 'most working dogs aren't' is a bit of a generalisation! Word of mouth and your own eyes are worth a lot more than the KC breeders list as a starting point. Just ask the owner of a dog youl ike of you can have its breeders details and ask to see the health tests.
The gundog group on FB is a good group and most people on there seem to health test.
Field trial bred dogs tend to be more hyper than 'normal' working dogs in my experience. We have got a FT bred one and she is completely nuts, lovely though.

 

[MCWScout]

If you go on the kennel club website they have a list of breeders for each dog breed, this can be refined to your area. I would think about having a look on there as they will only list kennel club approved breeders.
I would also suggest looking into a pointer - around the same size as a Labrador but bred for shooting, they also make lovely house dogs and most are fine around horses.

 

[MurphysMinder]

The KC will list anyone who pays to put their litter on the KC site. Assured breeders are listed for free and you have more chance of getting a decent pup through an assured breeder but it is not a guarantee. There are puppy farmers and people who breed from dogs with poor health test results who have the accolade of KC Assured Breeder. As said above in labs or springers you need to check the hip and elbow scores of parents, and several generations back, as well as making sure the parents are of the temparement and type you are looking for.