The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Bernedoodle Breeder: 20 Critical Questions & Expert Tips
Look, picking a Bernedoodle breeder isn’t just about finding cute puppies. It’s about setting yourself up for years of happiness with your new furry friend.
Let’s cut through the fluff and get to what really matters when choosing a Bernedoodle breeder.
Why Choosing the Right Bernedoodle Breeder is a Big Deal
You wouldn’t buy a car without checking under the hood, right? Same goes for picking a Bernedoodle breeder.
Here’s why it’s crucial:
- Health: Good breeders = healthier pups
- Temperament: Well-socialized puppies make better pets
- Support: Top breeders have your back long after you take your pup home
Red Flags When Choosing a Bernedoodle Breeder
Watch out for these warning signs:
- Can’t show you health records
- Pushes you to buy without asking questions
- Has puppies available 24/7
If you see these, run. Fast. They can be signs that the puppies are being bred in a puppy mill and the breeder might be involved in something unethical.
20 Must-Ask Questions When Choosing a Bernedoodle Breeder
1. How long have you been breeding Bernedoodles?
Experience is crucial in breeding. A breeder with several years of experience is more likely to understand the intricacies of genetics, health issues specific to Bernedoodles, and how to properly socialize puppies. They’ve likely encountered and solved various challenges over the years.
2. Where do the puppies live?
This question is vital for assessing the living conditions of the puppies and their parents. A reputable breeder should be proud to show you clean, spacious, and enriching environments. It also allows you to see how the puppies are raised and socialized. It is worth noting that most reputable breeders do not allow visitations so that the puppies avoid catching diseases before they get their vaccines. However, virtual visits can be arranged to show you around the environment where puppies are raised.
3. How do you socialize your Bernedoodle puppies?
Proper socialization in the first few weeks of a puppy’s life is crucial for developing a well-adjusted adult dog. A good breeder should have a structured socialization program that exposes puppies to various people, sounds, textures, and experiences.
4. What health tests do you perform on your breeding dogs?
Health testing is essential to reduce the risk of genetic health issues. For Bernedoodles, this should include tests for hip and elbow dysplasia, eye conditions, and certain genetic diseases common in Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles such as Degenerative Myelopathy or von Willebrand Disease. It is also worth asking if the parents of the breeding dogs are certified to see if they are guaranteed to be healthy. Having certified parents means the puppies are less likely to inherit genetic conditions that cause heartache for you and pain for the puppies.
5. What vaccinations and deworming do the puppies receive?
A clear vaccination and deworming schedule is important for puppy health. The breeder should provide documentation of all medical treatments the puppies have received. This is crucial and can save a lot of time and pain if the puppy is properly vaccinated and dewormed.
6. Do you offer a health guarantee?
A health guarantee protects you if your puppy develops certain genetic health issues. Look for at least a 2-year guarantee against hereditary conditions. This shows the breeder’s confidence in their breeding program and willingness to stand behind their puppies.
7. What are the parents like?
Knowing about the parents gives you insight into the potential size, temperament, and health of your future puppy. It also allows you to assess the overall care and condition of the breeder’s adult dogs. This can be a crucial step into knowing how your puppy will turn out.
8. How often do you breed your females?
Female dogs in excellent health are fit to breed on each heat cycle. When litter sizes decrease, it is an indication it is time to retire a female. Females should be retired by seven years of age.
9. What’s your policy if I can’t keep the dog?
A reputable breeder will always be willing to take back a dog they’ve bred, regardless of age or circumstance. This ensures their dogs never end up in shelters or rescues. This is a sign of a reputable and ethical breeder. However, do not expect a breeder to buy back the dog.
10. How do you match puppies with families?
Good breeders don’t just sell puppies on a first-come, first-served basis. They should have a process for matching puppy temperaments and energy levels with the right families to ensure the best fit. Knowing how the families are chosen can give insight into the ethics of the breeder.
11. What food do you recommend?
A knowledgeable breeder should have specific nutrition recommendations based on their experience with the breed. They might even require you to purchase the brand on which the puppy was raised before taking home your puppy. Puppies need a slow transition to a new food and a food transition at the same time as a home change is not recommended.
12. How do you handle temperament issues in your Bernedoodle breeder program?
Ethical breeders prioritize temperament in their breeding decisions. They should be able to explain how they select for desirable traits and work to minimize any behavioral issues.
13. What ongoing support do you offer?
The best breeders view puppy sales as the beginning of a long-term relationship. They should be willing to provide advice and support throughout your dog’s life. Many great relationships have been formed at Fox Creek Farms Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles between the breeder and the owners.
14. Can you provide Bernedoodle breeder references from previous buyers?
Speaking with past customers can give you valuable insights into the breeder’s practices and the quality of their puppies.
15. What’s your process for early neurological stimulation?
Early neurological stimulation can help puppies develop better stress responses. A breeder using this technique should be able to explain their process and its benefits.
16. How do you screen potential buyers?
Good breeders care deeply about where their puppies end up. They should have a thorough screening process, which might include an application, interview, and even a home visit. This ensures their puppies go to suitable homes and helps match the right puppy with the right family.
17. What’s your stance on spaying/neutering?
Reputable breeders should have a clear policy on spaying/neutering. They might require it as part of the purchase contract, or they may have specific recommendations based on current veterinary research. They should be able to discuss the pros and cons of these procedures and their timing.
18. How do you socialize puppies with children and other animals?
Early exposure to a variety of people and animals is crucial for developing a well-rounded dog. A good breeder should have a specific plan for introducing puppies to children of different ages, as well as other dogs and possibly cats. This helps ensure the puppies will be comfortable in diverse households.
19. What grooming and exercise needs should I expect?
Bernedoodles can have varying coat types and energy levels. A knowledgeable breeder should be able to give you a realistic picture of what to expect in terms of grooming requirements and exercise needs. This helps you prepare for the long-term commitment of caring for your dog.
20. Can you explain the different coat types in Bernedoodles?
Bernedoodles can have straight, wavy, or curly coats, each with different grooming needs. A breeder should be able to explain these differences, predict what coat types their puppies might have, and advise on the care requirements for each.
The Importance of Early Socialization
A good Bernedoodle breeder knows socialization isn’t just playtime.
It’s about exposing puppies to different:
- Sounds
- Textures
- People
- Animals
This sets your pup up for success in the real world.
Health Guarantees and Certifications
Don’t just take their word for it.
Ask for proof of:
- OFA hip and elbow certifications
- Eye clearances
- Heart clearance
- Genetic testing results
- Genetic defect warranty which does not require the return of the puppy to exercise the warranty
A legit breeder will have these ready to go and may initiate sharing these things before being asked..
Ethical Breeding Practices of a Bernedoodle Breeder
Top Bernedoodle breeders prioritize:
- Genetic diversity
- Temperament alongside looks
- Responsible placement of puppies
After-Sale Support from your Bernedoodle Breeder
Choosing a Bernedoodle breeder who offers ongoing support is huge.
Look for:
- Training tips
- Health advice
- A willingness to answer questions years down the line
Wrapping It Up: Making the Right Choice about your Bernedoodle Breeder
Choosing a Bernedoodle breeder is a big decision. Take your time, ask questions, and trust your gut. Remember, you’re not just getting a puppy. You’re choosing a lifetime partner in your dog’s health and happiness.
Choose wisely, and you’ll set yourself up for years of tail-wagging joy.
FAQ: Choosing a Bernedoodle Breeder
Q: What should I look for in a reputable Bernedoodle breeder?
A: Look for breeders who perform health tests on parent dogs, offer health guarantees, provide ongoing support, and have a clear puppy socialization program.
Q: How much does a Bernedoodle puppy from a good breeder typically cost?
A: It is typical for a Bernedoodle puppy to range between $2000-$5000. Bernedoodles from reputable breeders are often more expensive than some other breeds due to their popularity and the care involved in breeding. Always prioritize quality over price.
Q: What health tests should Bernedoodle breeders conduct?
A: Reputable breeders should test for hip and elbow dysplasia, heart issues, eye conditions, and genetic diseases common in Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles. Ask for OFA certifications and genetic testing results.
Q: How can I tell if a Bernedoodle breeder is a puppy mill?
A: Red flags include always having puppies available, lacking health certifications, and being unwilling to answer detailed questions about their breeding practices.
Q: What questions should I ask a Bernedoodle breeder?
A: Key questions include those about health testing, socialization practices, parental temperaments, health guarantees, and ongoing support. Refer to the full list in the main article for more comprehensive questioning.
Q: How long should I expect to wait for a Bernedoodle puppy from a good breeder?
A: Waiting times can vary, but it’s common to wait several months or even up to a year for a puppy from a reputable breeder. Be wary of breeders who always have puppies immediately available.
Q: Should a Bernedoodle breeder let me meet the puppy’s parents?
A: Many breeders utilize guardian homes for their parent dogs so when they retire from breeding, they remain with the family that raised them. In these situations, the parent dogs may not be on the premises when you are picking up your puppy at 8 weeks of age as puppies will have been weaned from their mom prior to 8 weeks of age.
Q: What kind of health guarantee should a Bernedoodle breeder offer?
A: Look for at least a 2-year guarantee against genetic health issues. Some breeders may offer longer guarantees or cover additional health aspects.
Q: How do good Bernedoodle breeders socialize their puppies?
A: Quality breeders should have a structured socialization program exposing puppies to various people, sounds, textures, and experiences from an early age.
Q: What ongoing support should I expect from a Bernedoodle breeder?
A: Good breeders often provide lifelong support, including advice on training, health, and nutrition. They should also be willing to take the dog back if you can’t keep it.
Remember, choosing a breeder is a crucial step in bringing home a healthy, well-adjusted Bernedoodle. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and trust your instincts when evaluating potential breeders.
