7 Things to Look For in a Reputable Breeder of Gun Dogs

A reputable gun dog breeder knows the importance of matching the type of game sought with the right species of dog so they can meet the needs of the hunter.

A good hunting dog can cost more than $1,000, so buying one or a few is quite an investment. So how do you know you found a good breeder who is going to sell you the type and quality of dog that you seek?

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Here are seven ways to find a reputable breeder of gun dogs:

1. Everyone has an opinion on how to breed a good dog that possesses the traits necessary to track or retrieve the animal you have harvested. Traits can be passed genetically from one generation to another, so finding a breeder that does selective breeding is your first step, says OutdoorLife.

2. Look for a breeder that can and will produce a Canine Genetic Health Certificate and other documents that can prove the genetic health of the dam and sire and their offspring.

3. When interviewing breeders about their puppies and their methods, ask if they will put in writing a guarantee that should a genetic problem (such as hereditary heart defect, hip dysplasia, eye or elbow problems) pop up that they will compensate you for it. Get your guarantee in writing, OutdoorLife recommends.

4. Justin McGill of Hunters Point Kennel advises buyers at Gun Dog Breeders Directory to go over the guarantee with the breeder so that you understand the terms: Do you get a cash refund if something is wrong with the pup? Is it a partial refund? Do they replace the puppy?

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5. Make sure the time frame and duration of the guarantee is in writing before you hand over the money.

6. If you like to hunt a variety of animals, there are breeders and breeds of dogs that are versatile in what they can be trained to do. Do they specialize in only upland birds? Are they better waterfowl dogs? Can they hunt both? Finding a breeder that can talk about the differences of the breeds and offer advice is important.

7. When looking for a reputable breeder, look online for forums and ratings from folks who have bought their dogs from said breeder. Read what is being said and what the complaints are.

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