[Patch O' Pits]

Red flags that indcate you are dealing with a BYB
(Irresponsible Backyard Breeder)

I think these need to go here too as I'm noticing more and more newbies are being taken advantage of by BYBs. I know there are several post with the info all spread out so I put some of the top things that are easy to spot to indicate the breeder is a BYB

Too many people make comments or excuses like oh but they are nice people , or Oh but the pups are so cute or I felt bad for the dogs. PLEASE look at the big picture before supporting a BYB!!!!

This is meant to complile things and better help those who are looking for a pup or dog from a breeder

First off, good dogs are where you find them rescues, shelters, breeders, out in a ditch. It isn't the dogs fault obviusly that the owners/breeders are irresponsible. However supporting and paying for a dog from a BYB you become part of the downfall of the breed sadly and add to the many shelter dogs there are IMO.

The main red flags that the breeder you are talking to is a BYB:
(things to RUN from)

-Titles and health tests and true working dogs even those who aren't titled in a specific event are not the end all be all of a reputable breeder, but those things are huge improtant tools that help prove a dog worthy of being bred. Those who don't use any of the tools available to them are in the BYB category to me.

- someone who says Oh yes I health test , but thinks health tests mean the vet looks over the dog every now and then and doesn't knwo anything about OFA or Penn Hip etc

-A breeder who only breeds for color or any other one trait and discounts the total dog

- A breeder who is seeling mix breed or designer dogs

- Someone selling unpapered dogs

-A breeder who does not use the standard as a blue print for the breeding practices

-Can't quote from it to compare their dog to it and explain why he/she is a good example of the breed and worthy of being bred

- Can't tell you why the pedigrees and dogs were matched up for a breeding

-A breeder who breeds females under the age of two

- Breeder that places puppies under 8 weeks of age

- A breeder who doesn't know how to eval a litter

- A breeder who doesn't understand or know how to eval for their adult dogs structure and temperament

- someone who doesn't give the first set of shots and worm the dog

- A breeder with no contracts or agreements

- A breeder that doesn't screen new owners and ask questions of them

- A breeder who can't or won't answer questions of the buyer

- A breeder who doesn't offer to mentor new owners

-one who breeds litter after litter and has several on the grounds at once

- someone who doesn't want you to see the pups or dogs in person before buying

I can go on and on but those are some of the major red flags.

So if you are not going to rescue and are buying from a breeder...the old saying buyer beware is something to think about

Don't be taken by fast talk

Hope that saves someone some heartache

To find a good breeder and what you are looking for in a dog

RESEARCH and knowledge are your friends when buying a puppy

Go to shows and working events and talk to people with the breed. Look around to see what you like

Learn the standard

Look at different sites

Contact breeders and ask questions

Ask questions on the forum

If you are not going to show or work your dog and even if you are consider a rescue... there are even papered rescues and you can get Limited registration papers to work an unpapered rescue. Also, there are plenty of pups and dogs in rescue that are quite worthy of great homes they just had a bad start with crappy owners

[Rottweilerlvr]

Good Post!! Thanks for sharing!!

[BelovedJuggernaut]

That is a GREAT post!

I have additional info to post, although it was written for Tibetan Mastiffs, it is also a great refference for ANY puppy buyer looking for a good breeder.

Here is something from www.tibetanmastiffinfo.com that relates to choosing a good breeder (actually written by my breeder):

You should be choosing your breeder before you think about choosing your puppy.
Somewhere along the way you’ve been introduced to the Tibetan Mastiff breed. You’ve seen a picture in a magazine or met one at the dog park and have now decided that this is the breed for you. You’ve decided to start investigating in earnest, have scoured the Internet and now want to start approaching Tibetan Mastiff breeders about the upcoming breeding season. Just as many breeders have an extensive screening process prepared, prospective puppy buyers should feel obligated to interview any breeder that they approach. Be it over the Internet or a telephone conversation, reputable breeders welcome inquiries about the breed, their dogs, their individual breeding programs and upcoming litters.

Where do you start? Why it’s NOT all about Geography!
While it may seem like the logical place to start, it is sheer folly to restrict the search for your breeder and puppy based solely on geography. By all means, go ahead and visit with a local breeder to get a feel for the Tibetan Mastiff breed but deciding on a puppy purchase simply because a breeder is conveniently located near you may not be in your best interest. Proximity does not guarantee that you will come away with a working breeder/owner relationship or have found the perfect match in your puppy.

Oftentimes prospective puppy owners place a lot of emphasis on the perceived disadvantages of dealing with a long distant breeder. One important reason that potential puppy owners may be reluctant to deal with breeders from a distance may be that they feel they are “purchasing a dog over the Internet.” If potential puppy owners take the time to educate themselves and correctly interview their breeders of choice, acquiring a canine companion need not be akin to an eBay transaction. Do not assume that distance will diminish the advantages of a knowledgeable and experienced breeder or the quality of a puppy that you may discover.

How much is that doggie in the window?
Cost is often the definitive consideration when it comes to deciding on a specific puppy. Prospective owners sometimes feel that proximity naturally means that a puppy will cost less. For example, traveling fees as you visit breeding facilities should be less and there will probably be no crate or flight costs to take into account.

While the purchase price of a Tibetan Mastiff puppy may seem exorbitant to the average person, establishing and maintaining a breeding program is extremely expensive. Daily maintenance, food, upkeep of secure facilities and health care ensures that reputable breeders enjoy a giggle when it is said that dog breeding is a money-making venture. From your perspective be guided by that fact that caring for a TM is a 10 – 14 year commitment. The initial purchase price is, in reality, a small cash outlay when you tally up how much you will be paying over the coming years.

Some things to consider about that purchase price.
While it is true that breeders determine their own prices for the puppies in a litter, be aware that not all breeders or puppies are created equal. You should be aware that all breeders do not share the same criteria. Some prices vary according to a set “show” and “pet” quality standard while some breeders sell each puppy for a fixed price. Make sure that you understand exactly what is included in that purchase price. It will be up to you to decide what is best for your circumstances and to reflect on the pros and cons of what your breeder of choice is offering to you.

A higher or lower purchase price may include:

a breeder's pledge to be available to you as a resource over the coming years
the breeder's knowledge to guide you along the way as your Tibetan Mastiff matures and presents you with various behavioral and/or health challenges
the breeder's help with official documentation when it comes to registration
direction and mentoring should you become a Tibetan Mastiff breeder
As opposed to:

no breeder support
exhausting efforts to find a source of information so that you can learn about the Tibetan Mastiff breed when breeder support is not given
unnecessary demands and future breeding obligations placed on you and your dog. There is a tremendous responsibility associated with breeding a litter of puppies and don't be fooled into believing that it is a money making venture. If you have no initial intentions to become a breeder when you begin looking for a puppy, DO NOT enter into any arrangements that compel you to breed your Tibetan Mastiff.
a breeder withholding registration papers unless you fulfill the his/her wishes
strings attached
Use the Internet and the telephone to your advantage.
Consider, instead, that technology really has made it much easier to reach out all across your country and, even around the world, as you research many different breeders at once. While the Internet allows for easy access and the exchange of information, it also allows for misrepresentation and the exchange of misinformation. Yet, if prospective puppy owners are willing to make the effort, the Internet opens up the possibilities to thoroughly investigate and explore your options.

To help potential puppy owners overcome their nervousness about beginning their search, to aid you in conducting a breeder interview and help you make informed decisions, we’re providing an inclusive list of questions to have on hand. The answers to these questions are the initial steps in helping you determine what is important to you and allows you to focus on the freedom of choosing both the correct breeder and, eventually, the perfect Tibetan Mastiff for your family.

It’s simply a combination of common sense and instinct.

[BelovedJuggernaut]

Continued.....



The Common Sense Questions
How long has this person been involved with the breed? How many dogs does this person have? How many litters has s/he bred?

Red Flag: SINGLE VS. MULTIPLE BREEDS: The love of dogs can be all-consuming and many fanciers of the Tibetan Mastiff are also passionate about other breeds such as Tibetan Terriers and Tibetan Spaniels. While some breeders do take such interests seriously and breed/promote more than one breed, potential puppy owners should be extremely cautious of those that have an abundance of different breeds and produce a mulitude of litters each year.
Ask about comprehensive medical checks on breeding stock. For example, does this breeder regularly do hip/elbow x-rays on proposed sires and dams? Do they have thyroid evaluations done? Do qualified veterinarians and radiologists and such organizations as the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) or equivalent organizations certify the dogs?

Is the breeder willing to show you documentation of certification?

Red Flag: Puppy millers and disreputable breeders have no problem telling you that they perform health checks on their dogs when, in reality, they do not. If any breeder is unwilling or unable to provide you with proof of certification, terminate your interview with him/her.
Question this breeder about the various health issues of his/her dogs. Does s/he seem honest and straightforward about the strengths and weaknesses in his/her lines?

Red Flag: There is no such thing as a perfect dog and ALL lines contain strengths and weaknesses. Do not continue an interview with any breeder that states s/he has no health issues with his/her dogs and, therefore, does not screen for such potential problems as hip dysplasia or hypothyroidism.
Does this breeder register his/her dogs and puppies with an official registering body such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) or the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)? What about paperwork and pedigrees?

Does the breeder have a working knowledge of the ancestry/pedigree of his/her dogs? Can s/he supply you with pictures of sire and dam, grandparents and great-grandparents?

Has this breeder taken an acceptable amount of time to speak/write to you about the various characteristics of the breed? Do you feel you have a practical and balanced overview of the breed?

Red Flag: The Tibetan Mastiff is a wonderful breed to care for but it is a VERY challenging one. Has this breeder rushed to tell you all about the positive attributes of the breed without discussing the difficult aspects you will face? While you are understandably excited about getting a puppy, do you feel rushed or pressured into a purchase?
Do you feel that the breeder has done a good job interviewing you? Do you feel that s/he has a good understanding of you, your family, your home, your lifestyle and your expectations?

Red Flag: Of course acquiring a Tibetan Mastiff ordinarily involves a financial transaction but puppies are not products crowding a Wal-Mart shelf that are made available to anyone who has the cash to spend. Do you feel that you have provided this breeder with sufficient information so that s/he can feel confident in a puppy placement with you or do you feel this breeder is more concerned with a money exchange?
Does this breeder provide a comprehensive information package?

Does this breeder require that you sign a contract? Ask to see a copy and review the individual terms.

Red Flag: It’s perfectly fine for breeders to vary in their policies when it comes to guarantees and refunds but make sure that YOU are comfortable with their practices. If you’re looking for a money-back guarantee as it pertains to certain health issues and this breeder doesn’t offer any, it’s best to know that beforehand.
Does this breeder provide you with ample time to ask questions as you educate yourself about the breed?

Does this breeder seem at ease when you suggest that you would like to visit to see the sire, dam and puppies? If you are unable to visit the breeder’s facilities, does this breeder provide you with a good sense of his/her set-up?

Red Flag: Question any breeder that continually deflects your intentions to visit his/her facilities and dogs. Be wary of a breeder that insists that you meet elsewhere to deliver a puppy or shows up with a car full of puppies for you to choose from. Steer clear of breeders who sell their puppies through pet stores or on demand.
Does this breeder take the time to socialize his/her dogs and puppies?

Does this breeder follow definitive guidelines as it pertains to worming or a vaccination protocol? What kind of health care do the puppies receive?

Does this breeder identify his/her puppies by tattoo or microchip?

Question this breeder about how involved you will be during the selection process of your puppy. Some breeders allow total participation in your personal selection and some reserve the right to choose what they feel will be the best puppy for you. Neither practice is incorrect; it is simply a matter of preference and style.

Does this breeder have experience with getting puppy to an airport and understanding the paperwork/procedures involved with air travel? Is this breeder concerned about the puppy’s welfare and only books flights that cause the least amount of stress to the puppy?

When can you expect to welcome your new addition into your home?

Red Flag: Tibetan Mastiff puppies are typically ready to go to their new homes by the time they reach 8 – 12 weeks of age. Be very wary of breeders who want to send your puppy home prior to that.
Is this breeder willing to work with you by offering informational support and advice even after you’ve brought your puppy home? Do you feel confident that this breeder will be available to answer any questions that you might have?

Is this breeder willing to take back a Tibetan Mastiff puppy should you no longer be able to care for your dog?

Red Flag: Reputable and responsible breeders never want to see Tibetan Mastiffs dumped in shelters, humane societies or with the unsuspecting guy who answers the “Tibetan Mastiff to Give-Away” ad you place in the weekend paper. Always make sure that your Tibetan Mastiff has a great home! If you can’t provide one, make sure that your breeder of choice offers a strong support system for the lifetime of your dog.
Questions that will speak to your instincts
What is the focus of this person’s breeding program? Does this breeder have an established breeding program that is well thought out? What goals, policies and ethics does this breeder adhere to?

Red Flag: Breeding practices vary from breeder to breeder but there are general basic guidelines to follow. Reputable breeders encourage health checks on all dogs included in a breeding program and discourage using immature females who are far younger than 2 years OR are not experiencing their second heat cycle. (Important note: Since Tibetan Mastiff females normally only go into heat once a year we must make this distinction. Girls may be somewhere between 18-24 months when experiencing their second heat cycle.) Responsible breeders also do not, by and large, encourage their females to have more than 3 or 4 litters over the lifetime of the dog. If you have any doubts after listening to the outline of a specific breeder’s practices, search for voluntary codes of ethics on breeder websites and learn about fundamental breeding practices.
Does this breeder seem interested in all aspects of the Tibetan Mastiff? Does s/he freely communicate his/her philosophies concerning health, temperament and conformation? Does this individual know and breed to the Tibetan Mastiff Breeding Standard?

Does this breeder spend time bashing other breeders, their breeding programs and their dogs?

Red Flag: The initial contact that you have with a breeder should be all about his/her breeding program, the interest that you have in his/her dogs and expected puppies during the breeding season. You do not need to listen to any breeder bad-mouthing any other breeders or their dogs. Truly reputable and enthusiastic breeders understand the considerable effort it takes to rear puppies and be completely involved with the welfare of their own dogs. Responsible breeders also realize that significant energy must be put aside to mentor newcomers to the breed and educate potential puppy owners. Be wary of breeders who seem motivated to reflect negatively on others and look upon fellow Tibetan Mastiff breeders as the “competition”. It is always best to be cautious around those breeders who feel the need to convince you that only their dogs are the best.
Does this breeder network with other breeders? Is s/he willing to offer you references or referrals to other reputable breeders should you prefer to look elsewhere?

Is this breeder actively involved in contributing to the future of the breed by volunteering his/her time with organizations or mentoring newcomers?

Does this breeder promote and protect the breed positively by making hard yet appropriate decisions concerning the placement of puppies? Is this breeder upfront about being willing to say “NO” to your request for a puppy if s/he doesn’t feel that a placement will be successful?

Regardless of whether you are a novice starting out on your first Tibetan Mastiff adventure or an experienced TM caregiver, the process of choosing a dependable breeder and an ideal puppy shouldn’t be a harrowing undertaking. Being prepared and asking the right questions will go a long way in teaching you more about the breed and enjoying the Tibetan Mastiff companion you eventually welcome into your home.

[Turner]

Good postd you guys!! Now I know I will never buy from a BYB Lol

[trainingtrixie]

Now what about mutts from an "accidental" litter?? That's where my little girl came from. I kinda knew the people (friends of a friend of a friend type deal). Trixie's mama was scheduled to get fixed, but got prego before the appt. She was like almost 2 and the neighbors aussie jumped the fence and proceeded to do the nasty with the mama dog, I believe her name is Speckles, or Dottie, something like that to do with her blue merlish coloration (lab/border mix). They didn't want the abort the pups, so they let her finish the pregnancy....10 PUPPIES!!! All but one were females, and they all had homes by 11 weeks old, and they would let them away from mama until 10 weeks! They were all vetted and in good health as far as I know. Now obviously Trixie isn't a show dog, just a family pet, maybe do agility later on. If your not planning on showing and just want a mangy mutt...is it ok to get a puppy from an "accidental" litter? I know it's prefferable to go to a shelter, rescues, etc...but around here, it's rare to find puppies there. They usually come to shelters as adults, or just remain strays forever. (rural area, stray dogs usually end up on a farm some where).

Anyway, I haven't had any problems with trixie health wise, temperment wise, or anywise. She's perfect!! And she was an accident born in the backyard....well, the basement. But same thing.

[Patch O' Pits]

It is never the dog's fault that they are born and all deserve loving homes IMO

Doesn't matter if you want a show dog or a compainion paying for a dog out of parents that shouldn't have been bred is supporting a BYB.

Taking a dog from an ooops litter is cleaning up someone else's mess who was irresponsible. If a female is in heat and left in a yard unattended what did the owners think would happen? So both they & the male's owner are both at fault. Males will pretty much go through anything to get at a female in heat. Unfortunately some just don't seem to have common sense when it comes to their dogs. That doesn't make them bad people but it still doesn't excuse their irresponsible actions.

Getting a pup for free instead of letting it end up at a shelter however is commendable IMO. Your dog sounds like she is wonderful. The way she was born doesn't change that she is a great dog

Unfortuntely, ooops litters take up a large portion of shelters

A dog doesn't have to come from a breeder to be a great dog nor does it have to be a purebred.

[trainingtrixie]

I have to agree with you that buying a pup from an "oops" litter is different than than being blessed with one for free. When an owner's dog gets pregnant, if they think "ooh, we can make some mulah on this!" then they obviously don't care all THAT much about the dog. If they are willing to give up the puppies for free, than it at least shows that they are tkaing a little responsibility for their careless actions. Either way, i'm glad that Trixie's mom's owners were a little careless... Hopefully Trixie's litter is the only one!! BTW Trxie gets spayed April 19...just after the fiance's birthday! Happy Birthday honey, here's a groggy puppy for you! hehehe

[Patch O' Pits]

Originally Posted by trainingtrixie

I have to agree with you that buying a pup from an "oops" litter is different than than being blessed with one for free. When an owner's dog gets pregnant, if they think "ooh, we can make some mulah on this!" then they obviously don't care all THAT much about the dog. If they are willing to give up the puppies for free, than it at least shows that they are tkaing a little responsibility for their careless actions. Either way, i'm glad that Trixie's mom's owners were a little careless... Hopefully Trixie's litter is the only one!! BTW Trxie gets spayed April 19...just after the fiance's birthday! Happy Birthday honey, here's a groggy puppy for you! hehehe

I agree people who try to right the wrongs and not profit don't fall into BYBs category to me.
I'm glad your pup is doing well. Give her lots of lovin and the spay procedure won't be so bad. My girl made me feel so guilty looking all pathetic when I took her, but it was the right thing.Hope all goes well

[spady]

"- Breeder that places puppies under 8 weeks of age"



This is not necessarily a bad sign. The breeder I live at/work for lets dogs go home at _either_ 7 weeks OR 9 weeks. 8 weeks is off limits because that's when they're in a critical fear imprint stage. (Other breeds that mature at different ages may be slightly different, but maybe only by 1/2 week or so.) Our dogs almost always start at the day they turn 8 weeks. They go home earlier because they can bond with their person first, and have a stable leader when the fear period comes around. Or they go home after they're through it and they're back to being happy-bouncy puppies. So, IMO, a breeder that doesn't know/acknowledge the fear period and lets their dogs go home at 8 weeks is more irresponsible than one that knows about it and lets them go home a week early.

Otherwise, I agree with all the rest of the statements. That one just seems to be more of a misunderstanding.