The Role of a Breeder
The role of a responsible breeder is not just to breed typey, healthy, well-tempered Bull Terriers. A responsible breeder also provides valuable guidance and support, helping potential owners navigate the unique aspects of Bull Terrier ownership. There are great breeders out there who tick all your boxes so take your time, do your research, and find someone who not only breeds dogs you like but whom you feel you can trust.
Responsible Bull Terrier breeders prioritize ensuring that potential owners are well-informed about the advantages and challenges of Bull Terrier ownership before making a commitment. Since this breed is not suitable for everyone, it is in the best interest of both parties to provide transparent and factual information.
How To Find a Breeder
The process of finding a breeder is very much about building a relationship. A buyer should select a breeder in whom he has confidence. That means one who will answer all questions honestly and stand behind the dogs they sell. The buyer can then leave selection of the puppy to the breeder, who can be expected to pick the best puppy for the buyer’s situation. Responsible breeders aim to place their puppies in homes where they will be loved, trained, and genuinely valued.
Start by familiarizing yourself with the Bull Terrier standard and find a breeder who breeds dogs that look like Bull Terriers! Even if you are not interested in showing, research and speak with breeders that have had consistent success in the show ring. Afterall the purpose of breeding is to preserve (and better) the breed and that is determined by exhibiting those dogs and winning. Note that not every successful breeder-handler breeds solely from animals that are champions. This should not deter you – simply ask for a copy of the litter pedigree which will allow you to research the animals behind your puppy. Most responsible breeders are limited by how many animals they can keep and/or show. If a breeder’s goal is to build a breeding program of super dogs that means that some of them will not see the inside of a show ring. Another benefit to buying from breeders who actively show (and win) is that they tend to be current on health issues and potential problems in their lines. They are not breeding for money but to improve the breed!
If this is your first Bull Terrier, it is to your advantage to find a breeder that lives within driving distance of you. It will be easiest for them to mentor and support you as your puppy grows regarding behavior, training, nutrition, and health matters. It will allow you the opportunity as you want or need to meet with them in person.
You can locate breeders several ways – through the breed’s AKC (or other kennel clubs registries) parent club or through local, regional breed clubs. The AKC’s website also has a list of active breeders but please note that just because a dog is registered with the AKC does not mean that they are a great example of the breed. Another option to find breeders is to attend a dog show in your area but be sure to check whether there are Bull Terriers entered before you go!
What To Expect in the Process
Breeders receive lots of inquiries from prospective homes. The more forthcoming and thorough you are with your initial email or phone call the greater the likelihood is that you will receive a timely response. Be patient but also do not hesitate to be persistent.
It is worth noting that the Bull Terrier community is a small one. It is not recommended to send a mass email to 20 breeders but rather select one breeder who best meets your criteria and start there.
If the breeder you have selected has puppies available do not assume they have one that is right for you. Not all puppies are created equal so at a minimum anticipate the breeder will want to interview you (and maybe meet) in advance of agreeing to sell you a puppy.
It is unlikely that a responsible breeder will allow you to select your own puppy from their litter. Remember that the breeder has spent pretty much every waking moment with that litter of puppies, from the time they were born to the time they go off to their new homes and no one is better qualified to select a dog that has the temperament and activity level that best matches yours/your household. Furthermore, if you are looking for a show prospect or a companion your breeder is the person most capable of making those determinations.
Do not forget that in all things regarding this new puppy (whether a show prospect or a companion) temperament is everything so do not attempt to select your new puppy from a photograph.
It’s worth noting that responsible breeders generally sell their puppies with a sales contract. Often there is a health guarantee included as well as a clause about returning the dog to the breeder if the buyer is no longer able to keep the dog. Bull Terriers are often sold with a co-ownership. This is done to protect the dog so that if there is a problem the dog is returned to the breeder, and not put in a shelter or rescue. Co-ownerships are for the well-being of the dog and not a means to control the new owner.
If you are purchasing a show prospect expect that there will be language in the contract regarding what the showing and breeding requirements are. All of this should be discussed well in advance of picking up your puppy so that both parties agree about how things are going to be handled moving forward.
A responsible breeder will ask you to pick up your puppy in person. They will not ship your puppy to you. You should want to meet your breeder/s and they should want to meet you! If you’re lucky it will also give you the opportunity to meet the dam, maybe the sire, and possibly siblings.
At a minimum your new puppy should go home with a copy of his/her BAER hearing test, a record of a clear veterinary exam, dates and details of initial vaccines and deworming, microchip information, as well as a feeding schedule and some general information on caring and training your new addition.
In addition to having your breeder’s support do not hesitate to join breed-specific clubs, which not only provide a sense of community but also valuable resources for education and assistance.
