What Do I Look For?

In your search of the internet for a Vizslas you will undoubtedly find many websites that offer Vizsla puppies for sale. Some of these websites will be representing wonderful who are reputable and ethical. A reputable will have the welfare of each of their puppies, and the in general, at heart. But for every reputable breeder you find on the worldwide web there will be literally hundreds that are not what they seem.

How do you know if the website you have found is indeed a reputable breeder? What should you be looking for to alert you to the fact that they may be looking at a backyard breeder, or puppy broker's website?

Don't let a website's slick "presentation" fool you. Study the site and keep a pencil and paper handy along with the list below. Check off the "Red Flags" that you encounter as you look at the site. Doing this will help you determine if this is a breeder that will be someone you would like to know more about. Take your time. Remember, the time you take now will save you money and heartbreak later.

1. If they accept PayPal or credit cards...... RUN. 2. If they have several litters all the time...... RUN. 3. If they have more than 2 or 3 ...... RUN. 4. If they do not show pictures of their dogs in AKC dog events....RUN 5. If they do not belong to AKC dog clubs or organizations...... RUN 6. If they do not show pedigrees of their dogs...... RUN 7. If they do not actively show their dogs in conformation events.....RUN 8. If their dogs are not American Kennel Club registered.....RUN 9. If they cannot provide you with prior adopters references.....RUN 10 If they will not provide you with their vet's information...... RUN 11 If they do not provide a health guarantee that means something...RUN 12 If the pictures of their puppies show skinny, pitiful, scared little babies.....RUN 13 If they ship worldwide...... RUN 14 If they do not question you as if you were adopting a human infant...... RUN

There are other signs of course. But these are a few of the real Red Flags that should alert you that you are at a site that is in the business of breeding dogs for a living, or that you are looking at a dog broker's site. Neither really care about the welfare of the puppy they are peddling, or about you.

There is a wonderful site called The Wrong Puppy. This site is full of very valuable information that will help you steer clear of the people that are out there to scam you out of your money, or sell you a puppy that is ill. I highly recommend that you check that site carefully.

A great place to begin your search for a new family member is at the Parent Club's website. It is chock full of fabulous information and is a "must read" for any prospective Vizsla owner.

This breed is NOT for everyone. They are a dog first and foremost. Know what the health issues are and educate yourself well.

Taking the time to educate yourself will pay you back tenfold.

Slow down...... Study...... Research......

Be willing to be on a reputable breeders waiting list. You will be glad you did.

Good Luck in your search!!