When you are thinking about adding a fluffy little friend it’s an exciting time but, can also be overwhelming when it comes to choosing a reputable breeder.
In this article, I discuss what is considered “backyard breeding” and why we should concerned and aware of the risks when selecting our new Pomeranian puppy.
Understanding Backyard Breeding
Backyard breeding is the practice of breeding animals in an irresponsible manner by people who don’t do any research on the breed and just have a litter of puppies.
These breeders often buy breeding stock from other backyard breeders to keep up with the demand for their animals.
What’s Wrong With Backyard Breeding
Backyard breeding is often associated with poor breeding practices, leading to the production of unhealthy animals. Many backyard breeders do not follow proper breeding practices, leading to the production of unhealthy animals.
One of the biggest concerns with backyard breeding is the lack of attention paid to animal welfare. Backyard breeders are often more concerned with making a profit than with the health and well-being of their animals. This can lead to overcrowding, unsanitary living conditions, and inadequate medical care for the animals.
Another issue with backyard breeding is the potential for the spread of disease. When animals are bred in unsanitary conditions, they are more likely to contract and spread diseases. This can be a serious concern for both the animals and the people who come into contact with them.
Backyard breeding is often associated with puppy mills, which are large-scale commercial breeding facilities that prioritize profit over animal welfare. Puppy mills are known for their poor breeding practices, unsanitary living conditions, and lack of medical care for the animals.
Top Signs Of A Backyard Breeder
When looking for a Pomeranian puppy, it’s important to know how to spot a backyard breeder.
Here are some signs to look out for when trying to identify a backyard breeder:
- Lack of transparency: A backyard breeder may refuse to let you visit their premises or see the pup’s parents or other dogs. This is a red flag as it suggests that they may have something to hide.
- Early separation from mother: Puppies should not leave their mother before 8 weeks of age. A backyard breeder may try to sell the puppies earlier to make a quick profit.
- No questions asked: A responsible breeder will ask about the type of home you can provide for the puppy. They want to ensure that it goes into an excellent home. A backyard breeder, on the other hand, may not care about the puppy’s welfare and will sell to anyone who can pay.
- No sales contract: A good breeder will provide a sales contract that outlines a health guarantee, what they expect from their buyers, and what the buyer can expect from the seller. A backyard breeder may not provide a contract and may not offer any guarantees.
- No support after sale: A responsible breeder will be available to answer any questions and provide support for the pup’s life. A backyard breeder may not want to hear from you after they sell their puppy.
- No involvement in breed-specific clubs: A responsible breeder will be active in breed-specific clubs and organizations. This shows that they are committed to bettering the breed. A backyard breeder may not be involved in any such clubs.
- No interest in temperament testing: A responsible breeder will prove their dogs in the show ring prior to breeding. This is a crucial tool for temperament testing, behavioral issues, as well as setting breed type. A backyard breeder may not prove their dogs in the show ring.
- Multiple breeds: A good breeder will focus on bettering their breed. It would be impossible to focus on four or five different species. A backyard breeder may have many different breeds.
If you come across any of these red flags, it’s best to avoid the breeder and look for a reputable one instead.
Backyard Breeder vs. Reputable Breeder
When it comes to buying a Pomeranian, it’s important to know the difference between a backyard breeder and a reputable breeder.
A backyard breeder is someone who breeds dogs as a hobby or a way to make some extra money. They often don’t have the necessary knowledge or experience to breed healthy dogs and may not provide proper care for the puppies. On the other hand, a reputable breeder is someone who breeds dogs with the goal of improving the breed and producing healthy, well-socialized puppies.
One of the biggest differences between a backyard breeder and a reputable breeder is the level of care and attention given to the puppies.
Backyard breeders may not provide proper veterinary care, socialization, or training for their puppies, which can lead to health and behavior problems later in life. Reputable breeders, on the other hand, prioritize the health and well-being of their puppies and often provide a guarantee against genetic health problems.
Another difference between backyard breeders and reputable breeders is the amount of time and effort put into breeding. Backyard breeders may breed their dogs without considering the health or temperament of the parents, leading to puppies with health or behavior problems. Reputable breeders carefully select the parents based on their health, temperament, and conformation to breed standards, ensuring that the puppies are healthy and meet breed standards.
Finally, the cost of a puppy from a backyard breeder is often lower than from a reputable breeder. However, this lower cost often comes at a price. Backyard breeders may cut corners on veterinary care, food, and other expenses, leading to unhealthy puppies. Reputable breeders invest a significant amount of time and money into breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies, which is reflected in the higher cost.
How To Know If A Pomeranian Is Purebred?
Finding Reputable Pomeranian Breeders
When looking for a Pomeranian breeder, it is important to find a reputable source to ensure that you are getting a healthy and well-bred puppy.
Here are some tips to help you find reputable Pomeranian breeders:
AKC Breeder of Merit
The American Kennel Club (AKC) has a program called the Breeder of Merit program. This program recognizes breeders who have a proven track record of producing healthy, well-socialized puppies that conform to the breed standard. Look for breeders who are part of this program, as it is a good indication that they are committed to breeding high-quality Pomeranians.
AKC Marketplace
The AKC Marketplace is a great resource for finding reputable Pomeranian breeders. This online marketplace only features breeders who meet certain standards, such as being registered with the AKC and having a history of responsible breeding practices.
We have personally found two of our Pomeranian puppies from breeders listed on the AKC Marketplace,
Other Tips
In addition to the resources listed above, there are a few other things you can do to find a reputable Pomeranian breeder. These include:
- Asking for referrals from other Pomeranian owners or breeders
- Checking with local breed clubs or rescue organizations
- Researching the breeder’s reputation online, including reading reviews and checking their social media presence
Remember, finding a reputable Pomeranian breeder takes time and effort, but it is worth it to ensure that you are getting a healthy and well-bred puppy.
Ethical Considerations in Breeding
Breeding Pomeranians is a serious responsibility that should not be taken lightly. Ethical considerations in breeding are crucial to ensure the health and well-being of both the parents and the puppies.
A responsible breeder will prioritize the health and temperament of the dogs over profit. They will only breed dogs that are free of genetic defects and have been cleared by a veterinarian. They will also ensure that the dogs are well-socialized and have a clean environment to live in.
Ethical breeders will not overbreed their dogs and will not breed them too young or too old. They will also spay or neuter their dogs that are not suitable for breeding to prevent unwanted litters.
It is important to note that not all breeders are ethical. Backyard breeders, for example, are often motivated by profit and do not prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs. They may breed dogs that are not suitable for breeding, leading to genetic defects and health problems in the puppies.
Hobby breeders, on the other hand, are often passionate about their dogs and breed them as a hobby rather than for profit. They may not have the same level of experience and knowledge as a responsible breeder, but they still prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs.
When looking for a breeder, it is important to do your research and find a responsible and ethical breeder. This may involve visiting the breeder’s kennel, asking for references, and asking about the breeder’s breeding practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a reputable Pomeranian breeder?
To find a reputable Pomeranian breeder, it is recommended to do thorough research. Start by asking for recommendations from friends, family, or a veterinarian. You can also search for local Pomeranian breed clubs or visit dog shows where breeders showcase their dogs. Look for breeders who are registered with kennel clubs, have health clearances for their dogs, and are transparent about their breeding practices.
I have a Pomeranian Breeder Directory of breeders from each state.
What are the risks of buying a Pomeranian from a backyard breeder?
Buying a Pomeranian from a backyard breeder can come with several risks. Backyard breeders often do not perform health checks on their dogs, which can result in puppies with genetic health problems. They may also not provide proper socialization or care for the puppies, leading to behavior problems or health issues. Additionally, backyard breeders may not be knowledgeable about the breed, resulting in puppies with incorrect physical or behavioral traits.
What is the difference between a backyard breeder and a reputable breeder?
A reputable breeder is someone who breeds dogs with the goal of improving the breed. They perform health checks on their dogs, provide proper care and socialization for their puppies, and are knowledgeable about the breed. Backyard breeders, on the other hand, breed dogs for profit without regard for the health or welfare of the puppies. They often do not perform health checks or provide proper care for the puppies.
How do I know if a Pomeranian breeder is reputable?
A reputable Pomeranian breeder will be transparent about their breeding practices and provide health clearances for their dogs. They will also be registered with kennel clubs and have a good reputation within the dog breeding community. It is recommended to visit the breeder’s facility and meet the puppies and their parents in person to ensure they are healthy and well-cared for.
What is the meaning of backyard breeder?
A backyard breeder is someone who breeds dogs without proper knowledge or regard for the breed’s health or welfare. They often breed dogs in their backyard or home without proper facilities or care for the puppies. Backyard breeders may also not perform health checks on their dogs or provide proper socialization for the puppies.
What is the difference between a puppy mill and a backyard breeder?
A puppy mill is a large-scale commercial breeding facility that prioritizes profit over the welfare of the dogs. Puppy mills often keep dogs in inhumane conditions and do not provide proper care or socialization. Backyard breeders, on the other hand, are individuals who breed dogs without proper knowledge or facilities for the puppies. While backyard breeders may not prioritize the welfare of the dogs, they do not operate on the same large scale as puppy mills.
