How To Choose The Right Bichon Frise Breeder
You have garnered a fine list of decent Bichon Frise breeders in your general area. A few are from an online search engine. A few were recommended by a veterinarian’s office. Hopefully you have been reading up on the delightful breed you have chosen. Take the time to make a list of questions to ask the breeder when you meet with him or her. Schedule appointments with each of the Bichon Frise breeders and take your list of questions with you.
This is not going to be a ten minute stop; do not make several appointments in one day. Reserve a morning or afternoon for each Bichon Frise breeder. You should expect to be there for a considerable block of time. And this is not going to be your only visit. A good breeder will know and expect you to come back. If not, they are not the right breeder for you.
What To Look For
There are several key points to be looking out for with each of your appointments:
1) Where are the puppies being kept? Bichon Frise puppies need socialization early on, and need to be around people. Are the puppies in the house, or in another building?
2) What are the temperaments of the Bichon Frise puppies? Are they happy and bouncy, or shy and aloof? A withdrawn Bichon is not a good sign. This could be an early indicator of fear aggression. It is also an obvious sign that the Bichon Frise breeder is not correct socializing the pups. It does not mean the puppy is a hopeless cause, but it does mean work for you to undo any damage.
3) Can you meet the momma? A good Bichon Frise breeder would say yes. In fact, they may be the ones insisting on making the introductions.
4) Do you get a full tour? Is there plenty of space for the puppies? Is their area clean? Again, a good breeder is going to expect that you want to see the whole enchilada.
5) What is the relationship liked between the local vet and the breeder? Be sure and ask to see shot records, as well as dates of check-ups.
6) If the breeder cannot tell you everything, from A to Z about the dog they are breeding and selling, cross them off the list. Not only should they be able to answer all of your questions, quality breeders will still be around after your puppy goes home with you to offer advice and suggestions.
7) If you do not ask first, the Bichon Frise breeder should be asking when your next visit will be. It takes time to find the right puppy. Good breeders know this. They love dogs as much, if not more, than you do. They will probably suggest you bring the whole family.
Not only should you get a contract, but you should get a chance to read it before signing it. These Bichon Frise puppies are their babies before they become yours. The breeder is going to be sad to let go of one of their kids; they want you to take all the time you need before making a final decision.
Once you have found the right Bichon Frise breeder for you, now you can begin with the puppy selection. Every Bichon pup is full of potential. There is going to be some work involved, but you will be thanked many times over by your happy pup and your very happy family.
