[Teresa]

Major BYB or "commercial" warning signs:
Taking credit cards, advertised "ship anywhere", no invesitagation of you as a potential owner, large non-refundable deposits, litters always available, running ad in the newspaper, not getting to pick your own puppy, everything claimed as show quality, high prices for "European pedigrees", but no titles, any health guarantee that requires you euthanize or return dog to the breeder. Fancy websites don't equate to good dogs or even humanely treated dogs. Many high risk breeders require you to breed the dog later (regardless of quality or health) and give them puppies back - there are a *few* COE breeders that do this to some extent, but think carefully before you agree to this and whether it's to help a breeder maintain a bloodline, or just a pyramid scheme to make money.

Good signs to look for in COE breeders:
No more than 1-2 litters per year, all 4 recommended clearances disclosed on all breeding stock (CHIC), parents have been shown/titled in conformation or performance (preferably both). Expect a LOT of questions about you, your lifestyle, history of dogs, intentions for the puppy. Expect a spay/neuter requirement for pets, a policy of taking back any dog at any time if needed, and reasonable health guarantees (refunds or replacements). Breeder should ideally be a member of at least one *actual* COE club. ALL health clearances can be *verified* on the OFA website (general statement that breeding stock is OFA certified doesn't cut it). Breeder is willing to discuss and help you pick the best puppy for YOU (should do temperament and conformation evaluations before sending home), and will never force you to take a dog so you don't lose a deposit.