Part  2 of 3  “Raise the Red Flag”

Red Flag #5: Bostons who don’t look like Bostons.

Dedicated breeders strive to produce puppies that are as close to the AKC Boston Terrier breed standard as possible. Those who do not adhere to the standard are not breeding to improve the breed, they are often breeding for profit or for their own agenda and do not have the best interest of the breed at heart. This can include breeding “Olde Boston Bulldogge’s”, breeding poor quality dogs that lack Boston type, or breeding for disqualified colors. Just because AKC will issue registration papers does not mean the breeding practice is correct. Breeding for “rare” Boston colors is most often a profit driven practice. It’s always nerve wracking to “meet the parents”, however in this case it’s recommended.

Red Flag #6: I can’t visit their home.

While it’s understandable why a breeder would not want a lot of foot traffic around their young puppies due to the spread of diseases, by that time the puppies should have an immunity built up and/or have received at least one or two sets of shots. And the breeder should not have a half dozen litters around of varying ages anyway. Yes, sometimes it’s convenient to meet somewhere, especially if there is a great distance involved or there is a show someone will already be at, however a buyer should always be WELCOME in the home and allowed to personally see where their puppy was raised if they request it. Six week old Boston puppies are SO cute! But they’re not cute when they’re not properly socialized because they were placed in their new home too early.

Red Flag #7: Puppies are available at 6 or 7 weeks of age.

It’s irresponsible, and in most states illegal, to place a puppy prior to 8 weeks of age. It is preferable to wait until 10 to 12 weeks of age. If a puppy is placed sooner than 10 weeks it should only be with an experienced dog owner who has a plan in place to properly socialize the puppy. We all love to be treated like adults, but the Boston breeder with a touch of control freak in them will place a puppy with you on a proper contract.

Red Flag #8: No restrictions in ownership.

While on the surface, we all appreciate being treated like adults, a reputable breeder does not turn someone loose with their dogs and bloodlines without restrictions. If you are buying a pet, they should require you to spay or neuter the puppy and provide proof. Many will often withhold papers until that time. The restrictions should also include a requirement to return the puppy if you are ever unable to keep it. Many animal rights groups criticize ALL breeders for adding to the pet population; however, truly responsible breeders will do everything in their power to keep their dogs out of shelters including return home clauses and placing themselves as a secondary contact on the dog’s microchip. Backyard breeders, profit breeders, puppy mills, and pet shops are the biggest offenders in taking no responsibility for the dogs they breed after they have left their possession. Jack of all trades…. A breeder is more experienced if they have many different breeds, right? BZZZT! Wrong again. Sorry friend, this just is not your day.

 “Raise the Red Flag” Part 1 of 3