posted 03-19-2004 04:16 AM         

When looking for a breeder you can go 2 different routes........ if you plan on trying to show then you need papers and also need to make sure the breeder will put the pup has SHOW POTENTIAL right in your contract. This way if you are not very familiar with the breed when you choose your puppy, then you can rely on what the breeder is telling you with a little more confidence. Most breeders who stand by what they are saying and are reputable will not mind doing this if they are being honest on their evealuation of a puppy. You also may want to check that the pups parents were tested before breeding.
If the dog is for pet or companionship then show quality is not really so important. A pet puppy can be quite adorable and sometimes even cuter then a show puppy. papers are also not so much of an issue. I believe to much importance is put on papers . They are too easy to alter and while reputable breeders will not usually do this there are always a few bad apples in the bunch. I have also seen MANY unpapered pups who look as good as or better then papered ones.
You might also want to check out a guarantee.Most breeders will offer you one .

Last but not least ... you usually get what you pay for, so maybe a bargain is not always a bargain. BUTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT sometimes a bargain IS a bargain because some breeders care more about homing then so much money. Just take everything into careful consideration and be informed.