Chihuahua breeding has become a popular business, and this can work both for and against you when you are on the hunt for the perfect Chihuahua puppy. On a positive note, if you are serious about wanting a puppy from a responsible Chihuahua breeder you will be able to find a breeder that has the perfect dog for you.
The down side is that there is Chihuahua breeding going on that is not done in a responsible fashion, and the result can be unhealthy, unfriendly ugly dogs – probably not what you are hoping for in a family pet. When you begin the hunt for a reputable Chihuahua breeder, take the time to ask plenty of questions and conduct the proper research into each breeder that you consider. By selecting your Chihuahua breeder carefully, you will be much more likely to purchase the friendly, healthy dog that you are hoping for.
There are plenty of steps that you can take to ensure that the breeder that you select practices responsible Chihuahua breeding. First, check with your state or national Chihuahua clubs for a listing of reputable breeders in your area. The American Kennel Club is another good source for responsible breeders of all kinds of dogs.
Your veterinarian may have names of good Chihuahua breeders and friends with Chihuahuas might be able to guide you in the right direction as well. Publications will also have listings in them for Chihuahua breeders, so check your local pet supply store for these magazines and trade publications. If you go to dog events like obedience classes and agility trials, you might be able to collect names of breeders as well.
There are also ways to find reputable Chihuahua breeders on the Internet, but if you decide to purchase your Chihuahua puppy online, you will want to take a few extra steps in the process to make sure that you have found a reputable breeder. Make sure that you at least have the opportunity to talk to the breeder over the phone, and ask for plenty of documentation to ensure you are getting the dog that you expect.
Finding a Chihuahua breeder will be only half the battle, however. Once you have the name of some breeders you might be interested in, you will then want to do your homework to make sure that the people on your list practice responsible Chihuahua breeding.
He will screen all of his dogs for Luxating Patella and eye diseases, since these are common hereditary problems in this breed. If a dog tests positive for either of these issues, a responsible Chihuahua breeder will not breed those dogs. Some of the practical aspects that you will want to explore with your Chihuahua breeder is whether the area that the dogs are kept in is clean and well maintained, and if the dogs look healthy and act friendly.
If you follow these guidelines, your chances of finding a person who is responsible in Chihuahua breeding is good, and you will be able to purchase a puppy that will bring you years of enjoyment.
