Finding a REAL Breeder - HELP!!!!!!!

[KittyS]

Hi all New to these forums and after reading so much valuable information I figured I would ask the experts!

My husband and I are looking for a female rottweiler puppy to provide a loving home for. We would not show her but make her a very loving part of our family so a “pet quality” girl would be ok too. We have one other dog an Irish Setter (pure bred – very sweet hearted) that is very passive (and vocal no less) and still younger (2yrs) so there wouldn't be a competition of the "alpha" spot in the household.

We live in the suburb of St. Louis (30 miles west) and can provide a safe environment with a fenced yard and all the love she can stand. Devotion going to puppy and obedience classes would be unquestionable – of course!

Where can I find a real breeder? All I keep running into are BYB that are telling me that papers won't do me “…any good since I won’t be showing or breeding the dog so gimme $500 bucks for this unregistered puppy!!” That a direct quote Are they insane? I want the papers & pedigree for piece of mind that this dog was bred correctly not for added aggressiveness or un-propitiate sizes -- I mean I can believe people are really this screwed up!

I have a huge amount of respect for people that truly care about the breed and are so sadly frustrated at all the trashy people I’m running into!!! Can anyone help?

If anyone can recommend a good breeder either in my area or out a few states I would we very grateful. I am willing to drive where I need to (my Irish was acquired in Arkansas) for a good tempered pup looking for her own family.

Thanks so much for reading and letting me vent a bit :(

KittyS
:( :(

[casual observer]

Back Yard Breeders can be so annoying. Although posting about individual breeders might not be allowed on this forum, if you check the users signatures and links, it might be a start.

BYBs should realize that with the "worthless" paperwork also means good lines, cleared health checks etc.

Keep looking and if I find anything, I'll PM you when you have been on here long enough to be PM'd.

[TrishB]

Hiya KittyS,

Welcome to the forums! Here are some ways to meet GOOD breeders:

1) Go to the AKC website, find a show schedule and go to a few shows! You'll get to see who's competing, who's winning, how they're doing in the obedience ring, everything! Just try to chat to them *after* the class, showing / competing is a little nerve wracking before you go in. ;)

2) Contact your local breed club!
Greater St Louis Missouri Rottweiler Club
Corresponding Secretary: Lynn Keller
Address: RR 1 Box 1041B, Butler, IL 62015-9801
Club Type: Specialty

They'll be happy to help you meet other owners, breeders in your area.

3) Contact some local obedience clubs! They'll have rottweilers in their classes and may know of some breeders.

You're going to have to be very socialable over the next while. Be friendly, walk up to people, compliment their dogs, ask questions and enjoy!

A good breeder should be able to show / offer you:
Registry papers
OFA certification for Hips, Elbows, Eyes, Heart
Champion Lines
Obedience Titles
Temperament Titles
Working Titles
A Sample Contract
References of other puppy owners

Best of luck in your search! :)

[LJSmith]

See if there are any dog shows in your area. They can be a big help. Read the rottweiler chronicle. It is online, do a google search for it. You will know you found a good breeder when you feel like you just got interrogated by the CIA. Be patient, it is worth the wait, especially if peace of mind is what you are after. One final thought, look for a reputable rescue group in your area. I am sure someone can chime in with some more info on this. Most rottweiler rescue groups are very diligent in the evaluation of the dogs they adopt out. You can be confident that the dog you adopt will be a great companion to you and your family. Their are many, many people here who sing the praises of the dogs they rescued. You are on the right track, keep doing your homework and good luck.

[LavenderRott]

Only BYB's advertise in the newspaper. A good breeder only has 1 or 2 litters a year and most of the puppies are spoken for before they are born.

Every one else has given excellent advise. Go to dog shows and be nosey. Health certifications are very important.

There is an excellent thread at the beginning of this section. I believe it is titled, "What makes a Good Breeder." Start there.

Visit here a lot. You can never learn too much before you bring your pup home.

Welcome to the Forum!