The question is: How does one recognize the serious hobby breeder? Following is a list of requirements the breeder should meet before you consider purchasing a puppy. It is an interesting fact that poor quality puppies from pet shops and backyard breeders are often sold for the same price and sometimes even more than those purchased from the serious hobby breeder. Unequivocally, your choice should be from the ranks of the SERIOUS HOBBY BREEDER. These breeders acknowledge responsibility for each and every puppy produced, and stand behind every dog they have bred. When someone is involved in dogs for the enjoyment of each individual animal, for participating in any of the many aspects of 'dog sport,' and for the challenge of producing the finest animals possible, the result is superior. The serious and dedicated hobby breeder regards his/her dogs as even more than a hobby, although the true fancier does not expect to make a profit. This person's only goal is to produce puppies and when the 'fun' is over, sell them quickly. Often the quality of the dogs being bred is poor. The backyard breeder is not aware of breed problems, and doesn't care. The casual breeder does not have annual eye examinations done by a Board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist, and does not send hip X-rays to the GDC or OFA for evaluation and registration. Usually this breeder knows little about the Breed Standard or history of the breed, and still less about proper care. Even worse, perhaps, it's being done just to make money. This is the person who owns a pet Westie and thinks it would be 'fun' to have puppies, that it would be a great experience for the children, or that the bitch should be bred once before she is spayed.

West highland white terrier for sale