A responsible breeder utilizes only healthy dogs from one beloved breed.

To qualify as good, healthy breeding stock, all dogs must be tested and cleared of all health and genetic problems indicative of that particular breed.

Some of these tests might include:
CERF, to screen for cataracts or other inheritable eye diseases.
BAER, to determine that the dog can hear in both ears.
OFA of hips and patellas, to screen against hip dysplasia and luxating patellas.

Mates must:
Be AKC registered.
Be outstanding specimens of the breed.
Conform to the breed standard and have worked toward or completed their AKC championship titles.
Have sound health and temperaments, with traits that are complimentary to one
another.

All of the health and temperament clearances must go back several generations in the dogs' lineage history.

Responsible Breeding is a Time-Consuming and Expensive Undertaking

Responsible breeders usually make little or no monetary profit.

Whelping care and expenses are usually considerable.

Whether or not a c-section is required, it should always be planned for.

Being on 24 hour call for the first few weeks is a necessity.

A warm, quiet and safe environment is essential for the whelping pen's location.

The required supplies to have on hand:
Heating elements.
Scales.
A complete whelping kit for dogs.
Food.
Supplies for new puppy owners.

A responsible breeder provides the following care for puppies before they are placed in a home:
Thoroughly screens each potential new owner, making sure that they are a good a match for the puppy's personality, and can provide adequate care and nurturing.
Does not release puppies until 8-12 weeks of age.
Has provided at least two series of initial immunizations.
Has dew claws removed.
Has been properly socialized - puppies should have ample interaction with the mother, siblings, and other members of the household, and should meet as many different people as possible in a safe and controlled environment.

A responsible breeder provides the following services after the puppy leaves for a new home:
Sends the owners home with supplies necessary to care for new puppy (including food, dishes, collar, grooming tools, crate and bedding, toy, a training book, etc).
Follows up to make sure the pup is adjusting well.
Answers any questions the new owners might have, and continually offers support.
For the life of the dog, agrees to take puppy back should any problems arise.