Finding a Reputable Breeder

Finding a reputable breeder is not THAT difficult, you just have to know what to look for. A reputable breeder will ask as much of you as you ask of them. Be prepared. They want what's best for their puppies and want to assure that whomever leaves with a puppy in tow, has met their criteria.

First things first : What makes a REPUTABLE breeder? Well, lots of things:

A reputable breeder is not breeding to make money - in fact most reputable breeders do not even break even on a litter. They pay for health testing, stud fees, neonatal care for the pups and dam, whelping expenses, puppies first vaccines, dewormings and sometimes, even ear croppings. That's if the litter came out without any complications.

They breed for the betterment of the breed, not just because they have two great danes.

They've devoted years to the breed and have researched lines thoroughly to make sure that the dogs they choose to mate are compatible to one another and will not do a disservice to the breed.

A reputable breeder will geniuinely care about where the puppy is going, what their environment will be like. This breeder will also be willing to answer any questions you have throughout the life of their puppies.

A reputable breeder is usually involved in activities such as conformation shows, obedience, therapy work and rescue.

Before You Buy

Before you buy your great dane, please read the following article.
How To Aquire A Great Dane

Where to begin your search

Now that you've decided that a Great Dane is the right dog for you, where do you begin finding the right breeder for you?

The first place I would suggest is to go to The Great Dane Club of America.  They have gone to great extent to ensure that the breeders on their referral list have meet all of their very stringent requirements and keep their code of ethics.

Red Flags

How do you know if a breeder is NOT a reputable breeder? Here are some signs:

	The dogs are not kept indoors as part of the family.
	The breeder has multiple litters per year, often times using the same stud dog.
	The breeder does not health test.
	The breeder does not offer any information about their dogs lineage.
	The breeder sells all pups with full AKC registration regardless of quality or color.
	The dam is not even two years of age.
	And last but certainly not least...THE PUPS ARE REGISTERED THRU CKC (Continental Kennel Club).  RUN do not walk, away from this breeder.

So, you are interested in becoming a breeder? 
How do you begin?   Click HERE.

How to tell the difference between a Reputable Breeder and a Backyard Breeder   Click HERE.

Suggested Reading:

Buying a Great Dane Wisely

"I Just Wanted a Pet"