Breed Information

We hope the following information will be helpful, whether you are searching for that perfect puppy for your family or seeking to improve your relationship with your current pet.

Official Standards:

• For every AKC-Registered breed, there is an official "standard" or written description of how the ideal dog should look, move, and behave. Dog show judges use it to evaluate dogs, and breeders strive to meet the standard. All the standards are published in the AKC's "The Complete Dog Book" and posted on the AKC Web Site. This book and site also contain breed histories, photographs of the various breeds, and basic information on caring for your dog.

Choosing a Dog That's Right for You:

• The decision to acquire a purebred dog should not be taken lightly. A dog in good health might be there to share in your joys and sorrows for 10 to 14 years or more. So the decision you make will be with you for quite a long time.
• Selecting the right breed for your individual lifestyle and personality requires a bit of research. Do you need a dog that's a good with children? Will the dog be left at home alone for long stretches of time? Do you want a dog that obeys readily and is easily trained? How much exercise will your new pet require?
   
• Before deciding which breed best fulfills your requirements, take the time to read, observe and ask questions. Your local kennel club is a good source of information. They will be able to advise you of "doggie" activities, such as shows, obedience trials, matches, training classes, Canine Good Citizen testing, etc., where you will have the opportunity to observe first hand various breeds in action.
   
• These events also provide you with the chance to meet and speak with area breeders. Just a special note* While visiting at a dog show, please be considerate of the exhibitors' need to look after their dogs and prepare for judging. Most exhibitors will be most happy to talk to you and answer any questions about their breed after they have completed showing for the day.
   
• Visit the public library, speak to your local veterinarian, research the Internet, visit the Dog Museum here in the St Louis area, and learn as much as you can about the breeds that interest you. You owe it to your family and, especially to the new pet you will be acquiring, to do your "homework" before you make such an important decision.
   
• Acquiring a puppy from a reputable breeder is of up most importance. Your puppy's breeder should be able to show you the kind of environment in which your puppy is raised and introduce you to your puppy's dam (mother) and perhaps, even it's sire (father). Be sure to ask the breeder lots of questions. What do they like best about their bred and also what do they like least? They should be honest and tell you the good, the bad and the ugly about the dogs they live with and raise for others. Some people might not mind that a dog that "sheds" a lot but others might find that an undesirable trait. A breeder will be truthful with you about the various behaviors, habits and other conditions because they want you to be happy with the puppy you have selected from them.
   
• Take your puppy for a veterinary examination soon after arriving home. And, we would add, do not accept any puppy from any breeder that would not agree to take a puppy back that should not meet with your vet's approval!!

Once you have selected the breed of dog that will become a member of your family, you may investigate the various " canine activities " that are available in our St Louis area.

For a list of Local Breeders and more Breed information, check out our Members page or Contact Us for our Breeder Referral Directory.