How to Find the Perfect Breeder

Remember this is your family member, you have the right to ask questions!!!

Questions that should be asked:

How long has the breeder owned Mastiffs? (This should not be less than 5     years)

Why did you choose the Mastiff breed?  (Listen to their story.  This will tell you a lot about the breeder's personality.)

Why did you choose to breed Mastiffs?  (Listen carefully. This will tell you their breeding philosophy.)

Has the breeder owned and/or bred any other breed?  (This will tell you about the breeder's history and experience.)

Does the breeder currently own and/or bred another breed?  (Good breeders should limit themselves to one or two breeds because of the demands in producing excellent examples of their breeds.)

Can you see the mother and father?  (The answer should be yes, unless the mother is very protective of her litter and her babies are young.)

Where are the mother and father being housed e.g., in the house, in a kennel, or outside dogs?  (They should be part of a loving family.)

Where are the pups being raised e.g., in the house or in a kennel?  (They should be raising the puppies in the house and around people.)

How old is the mother and father?  (A mother should not be bred before turning  22 months or after her 7th birthday.)

Has this mother been bred before?  (The breeder should be excited to talk about their puppies.)

  What is the current health of the mother and father?  Have they had health problems?  Do they rely on testing?

What is the current health of grandmother and grandfather?  Have they had health problems?

What is the current health of great-grandmother and great-grandfather?  Have they had health problems?

What is the pedigree of these puppies?  (Ask to see a five generation pedigree.)

What guarantees do they offer on their puppies?  (Breeders should have a written health guarantee covering the puppy until the age of 3.  Mastiffs are not adults until age 3.)

What is in the breeders sales contract?  (Breeder should have a copy available for you to read.)

Does the breeder require that you spay/neuter your pet?  (This should be a decision that is made with your family, not the breeder's demands.  Spaying/Neutering them disqualifies them from participating in AKC shows.)

Do they require that they co-own your pet?  This is not recommended . Your Mastiff is a member of your family and will be for many years to come.

Do the puppies see the vet for health check-ups before coming home?  The puppies should come to you after receiving wormer, shots, and a complete examination from the breeders vet.

Remember

The breeder you select should be able to show you their love of Mastiffs by willingly answering any questions you have.  Do not be afraid to ask questions, good breeders can talk hours about their Mastiffs.  Also you should feel very comfortable with your breeder.  Your choice of a breeder is the most important part of your journey for your new family member.  You have the right to ask questions!!!!

Ask Questions

Get Answers

Back