FINDING REPUTABLE BREEDERS

Here at ECCR, We understand rescue is not for everyone since often the dogs need rehabilitation or have issues. We also know that many prefer to get a puppy and that's just fine! As we have taken many corgis with health or behavioral issues intothe rescue that are the result of "bad breeding," we wanted one of our volunteers to share a story about her experience in choosing a breeder.

Michelle's story:
My husband and I knew we wanted a dog for a very long time, specifically a corgi. We had scoured rescues and local shelters but realized finding a corgi would be pretty difficult unless we went to a breeder. I began researching breeders almost a full year before we made our choice.

Choosing a breeder is a very serious endeavor and should not be taken lightly. Specifically with corgis, you want to be sure that the breeder tests for genetic diseases that unfortunately plague this breed such as hip dysplasia, Von Willebrand Disease, and especially Degenerative Myelopathy. Beware of breeders that only test for a single of these potential health problems as it may be an indication that they are taking the “easy way out” by not being thorough with their health screenings.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the breeder requires the puppies to stay with the mother for at least 8 weeks, potentially longer. Puppies learn so much from their mothers in the first few weeks of their lives and taking them away from that source of education can cause detrimental affects in terms of socialization with other animals later in life. Any breeder that agrees to let a pup venture into a new home earlier than 8 weeks should be a red flag. In the same vein, breeders should have some kind of agreement to take the dog back at any time should the owner not be able to care for him or her. This helps keep corgis out of shelters and away from homes that may not be suitable for the breed. This also illustrates the breeder's desire for the very best for their dogs, regardless of changing life situations. Breeders should also be completely open to questions and conversation. Any breeder that is hesitant to provide information about the parents of the puppy or unwilling to give a tour of their premises should be reconsidered.

Finding the right breeder for you may take a very long time and you may have to research multiple different ones before you find the perfect match. The cheapest option may seem like the best, but remember that backyard breeders aren't taking the care and in-depth approach to the breed as a certified breeder does with every single litter. It is very vital to keep in mind that all of your hard work is going toward having a healthy, happy companion that best suits you and your family for many years in the future.