So, you have chosen to buy a miniature Australian Shepherd. These dogs are very popular these days due to their compact size and intelligence. However, first time mini buyers need to be careful and know what to look for. Many Miniature Australian Shepherd breeders may try to take advantage of unsuspecting buyers and sell puppies that may have genetic problems to unsuspecting buyers. So here are the top 5 things to know about Miniature Australian Shepherd breeders.
1. The first thing you should consider is the experience and knowledge of the breeder. You should ask breeders a lot of questions to get a good idea of the depth of their breeding knowledge. Miniature Australian Shepherds must be bred from a strong litter of Standard Aussies. Before breeding, it should be ensured that the parents are in good shape and have a high chance of producing a genetically strong puppy. If you find that a breeder is actively avoiding your questions about their breeding process, you may want to locate a different breeder.
2. A good breeder will regularly check the physical health of their litters. Puppies need to have the bone structure and behavioral traits of Australians. Miniature Australian Shepherds are highly prone to blindness and deafness. Also, if the pup has a genetic disorder, he could exhibit symptoms of hip dysplasia later in life. Breeders must be able to produce appropriate medical certificates to prove the well-being of their puppies.
3. Breeding a new type of puppy has a high risk of genetic disorder. Therefore, even if the puppy appears normal, it should be checked regularly for genetic disorders. Even parent dogs should be checked for generic disorders. Problems can be found in the elbows, thyroid, kneecap, and most likely the eyes. Because of this, breeders should be able to provide you with proper proof of genetic controls.
4. Raising a dog does not mean only the birth of the puppy. Parenting also includes proper care of the puppies. Before the puppies find a new home, they will have to stay with the puppies and train them. They must ensure a clean environment not only for the puppies but also for the parent dogs. Visit the breeding facilities if possible. If it doesn’t look clean, you have reason to worry.
5. A good quality breeder will put in a lot of effort and love to raise each puppy. Naturally, they will be concerned that their puppies find a good home. This concern will be expressed through conversations. Do not hesitate if the breeders ask you questions about your home, the place where the puppy will go. Rather, you should be happy that the breeder really cares.
If you can remember the points I discussed, you can be sure that you will find the best Miniature Australian Shepherd of its kind.