Breeding Your Dog (Part 8 )
ask questions. What or how much does the buyer know about the breed, why did they pick your breed, do they have children under eight years old, do they have a fenced yard, and what are their expectations. All puppies should be sold at the same price, regardless of their show quality. The cost for breeding and raising a puppy is the same, so unless there is a medical condition that will cost the new owner over the lifetime of the dog, I do not offer a puppy at a lower rate.
In addition, all puppies should be sold with a limited registration. From the AKC registration guidelines: AKC registration application forms provide the option for registering dogs with limited registration. Limited registration means that litters produced by the dog are not eligible for AKC registration. The dog is eligible to compete in all AKC-licensed events except breed competition at an AKC-licensed dog show. The decision as to the registration status of a dog is the responsibility of the litter owner(s). The litter owner(s) must indicate whether the dog is to be registered as limited, in the appropriate space on the dog application. If limited is not indicated, full registration will be assigned. Limited registration can only be designated at the time the dog is individually registered. The limited designation may be removed upon the written permission of the litter owner(s) and upon submission of a form for that purpose, which is available from the AKC, and the required fee. Once the limited designation has been removed it may not be reimposed. More information on registering a dog or litter can be found at www.AKC.org.
As a breeder, you should be ready and willing to take responsibility for the health of each puppy you sell. Depending on the breed and any health concerns that may be characteristic to your breed along with any conditions that may occur due to lack of proper care on your part, you should be willing to replace a pup or refund the amount paid. Along with the puppy's registration form, you should supply a health guarantee, stating your terms clearly, proof of shots and instructions about the puppy's care, signed and dated by both you and the buyer.
Breeding and raising a litter may be fun and exciting but you are now entering into a business contract. By stating your terms and care requirements in writing, you
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