A breeder should be ready to stand behind the dog in case of hereditary defects. A guarantee, either to replace the dog or provide some type of refund should be offered in writing. A breeder should be available after the sale to answer questions that may arise regarding grooming, nutrition, behavior, etc. Concerned breeders will ask many questions of a prospective buyer. They want their puppies to be matched to the right home.
Reputable breeders sell their puppies with written contracts.
These contracts will specify the breeding behind the puppy, the puppy's registration or litter registration number, and the terms of the sale. These terms will include the price and guarantees involved. Many breeders require that if the buyer is unable to keep the dog, it is to be returned to the breeder. Most important, a reputable breeder will require that a pet quality puppy be either spayed or neutered. Under a limited registration, a dog is recognized as a purebred, AKC registered, and the dog is eligible to compete in obedience and other AKC events.