10 Questions Breeders Should Be Asking Buyers

Bringing a new puppy into your life is like adding a burst of sunshine to your everyday routine. But, just like a ray of sun, it's essential to find the right spot to ensure it shines its brightest. So, dog lovers, before you embark on this adventure, we've got a checklist that'll help you make the perfect match. 

When dog breeders are considering potential buyers for their puppies, it's essential for them to ensure that the dogs will be placed in responsible and loving homes. If you’re breeding from your dogs, these 10 questions can help you ensure that your pups are going to a home that is well equipped, educated, and prepared to look after them and give them the best life possible. 

And if you’re a prospective owner looking to embark on the journey of buying or adopting a dog, consider your answers to these questions before taking the next step. 

1. Why do you want to get a dog, and why specifically this breed?

This can help dog breeders to understand the buyer's motivations, and helps ensure they are a good fit for the breed's characteristics and requirements. As you’re more likely to have a great knowledge bank about this breed, you’ll be able to tell pretty quickly if the potential new owners have done their research or just glanced at the Wikipedia page on the way over. 

2. Have you owned dogs before?

This question helps gauge the buyer's familiarity with dog ownership and their ability to care for the breed. This is especially useful if you are dealing with a breed that is not recommended for first-time dog owners.

If they haven’t owned dogs before, this doesn’t mean they won’t be a responsible owner. Just make sure you follow up by asking what they understand about the breed and the responsibilities involved. 

3. Do you have any other pets at home?

Knowing about existing pets helps assess compatibility and potential socialization needs.

Do they have other pets coming over on a regular basis? You’ll want to know the new pup will have access to socialization opportunities. 

4. Where do you live and do you have a yard or suitable outdoor space for the dog?

Understanding the buyer's living situation helps ensure it's suitable for the breed's exercise needs. Knowing the location can also be useful, as some breeds do not fare well in the inner city, while some don’t need as much time in green, open spaces.

5. What is your daily routine like, including work hours and other commitments?

This question helps assess if the buyer can provide adequate attention and care for the dog, whether their schedule is flexible, or whether they are likely to be too busy to care for the dog. Busy families and those working out of the house can still be great owners, but you’ll want to know if they've given some thought to doggy day care or that they’ve got people close by to make sure the puppy isn’t left alone. 

6. Are you aware of the financial responsibilities of dog ownership, including veterinary care, food, and grooming?

Many dog owners are not prepared for the expense of owning a dog. Asking this will ensure that the buyer understands the costs involved once the dog is home, and can prevent issues down the road. Many people get uncomfortable talking about money but have a rough idea of how much good quality food costs, vaccinations, insurance etc and gauge their reaction when you let them know what they’ll be looking at just for the first six months. 

7. Do you have any concerns or questions about the breed or the puppy's lineage?

This allows the buyer to address any uncertainties or clarify doubts they may have. It’s also a good way to position yourself as a reputable dog breeder who does not need to wait to be asked, and is not seen to be withholding information from buyers.

8. Are there any specific questions or concerns you have about the puppy, its upbringing, or any additional information you'd like to know?

Encourage buyers to ask questions and express any concerns they may have to facilitate open communication.

9. Have you researched and prepared for the breed's specific health and training requirements, including the breed's common health issues and related expenses?

Knowing the buyer's level of preparation can help ensure the dog's wellbeing. Understanding the breed's health vulnerabilities is essential for responsible ownership, and is something that buyers should research before committing to dog ownership.

10. Can you commit to providing a forever home for this dog, including its entire lifespan?

We’ve all heard the phrase “A dog is for life, not just for Christmas,” and it comes from sad origins: a large number of dogs are given up early due to unprepared owners. Ensuring that the buyer is committed to lifelong care can help prevent the dog from ending up in a shelter.