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German Shepherd puppy laying down alert in the grass.
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If you purchased your puppy from a responsible breeder, you’ve probably developed a relationship with them. After all, this person is an expert on the breed and on your puppy’s specific bloodline. They planned the litter and raised the pups for the first few weeks of their lives. Because of all this, your breeder should be a valuable resource when you have questions or problems.

Reaching Out With Questions

It’s natural to experience challenges with a new puppy and even into your dog’s later years. Who better than the breeder to answer your questions and help you come up with solutions? As a new owner, you may feel that once you’ve purchased the puppy and brought them home, the breeder has done their part and now you’re on your own. But that’s simply not the case.

Responsible breeders care about the puppies and are interested in hearing what’s going on with your dog, good and bad. Not only that, but with their knowledge of the bloodline, the breed, and the puppy’s parentage, your breeder may have suggestions and solutions for pretty much everything to do with your new puppy.

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Handling Major Life Changes

In rare cases, your life may change in such a way that you can no longer keep the dog. In this case, it’s essential that you contact the breeder. Any reputable breeder will be willing to take the puppy back, even in their later years.

If this happens to you, don’t be afraid to call for fear of being judged. A breeder’s first responsibility is to the dog, and they’ll likely take the dog back and do everything they can to place them in a new home.

German Shepherd puppy laying down alert in the grass.
©Oksana - stock.adobe.com

Making Future Breeding Decisions

By staying in touch with your breeder, you’re also sharing valuable information about your dog. Your breeder will want to know about any temperament or health issues your puppy has in order to make future breeding decisions. The breeder cares about breeding the healthiest dogs possible, and input from you is important.

Most of all, the breeder knows your puppy better than anyone and is more than happy to be your adviser. There’s probably very little about the breed they haven’t encountered over the years. This doesn’t end after puppyhood, try to stay in touch throughout all the years of your dog’s life. A responsible breeder will always remain a resource and a valued connection.

If you’re looking for a responsible breeder and if you have a specific dog breed in mind, check out the listings on AKC Marketplace and contact your local breed club.

Related article: Five Common Questions New Puppy Owners Have
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