• Responsible breeders embrace the belief that each new litter should represent an improvement over the last.
    
• Responsible breeders are aware that each breed has an official standard or written description of how the ideal dog looks moves and behaves. They are careful to only breed dogs that meet this standard.
    
• Responsible breeders give careful consideration to health issues, genetic concerns, temperament, soundness and appearance.
    
• Responsible breeders know that every dog however wonderful as a companion has certain flaws or weaknesses and that it is important to find a mate that can complement strengths and help eliminate the weaknesses.
    
• Responsible breeders accept responsibility for the puppies they produce throughout each puppy’s lifetime and are always available to answer questions and provide in formation to the puppy’s new owners.

AS A RESPONSIBLE OWNER, YOU MAY CONSIDER SPAYING OR NEUTERING YOUR DOG

SPAY / NEUTER

WHAT EXACTLY IS SPAYING and neutering? Spaying is the surgical removal of a female dog’s uterus and ovaries. Neutering refers to the surgical removal of the male’s testicles and spermatic cords.

Many breeders offer puppies for sale with the stipulation that the dogs be neutered or spayed when they reach the appropriate age. This is one way for breeders to ensure breed improvement by only allowing dogs they determine to be of breeding quality to reproduce.

If you decide that breeding is not for you or your dog, please consider having your dog spayed or neutered to prevent accidental breedings that result in unwanted litters. Here are some other considerations:

• Spaying a female or neutering a male is not dangerous and does not change a dog’s temperament or cause weight gain.
    
• Spayed females are often healthier and live longer than unspayed females.
   
• Neutered males cannot develop testicular cancer and have a lower risk of developing prostate disease. 
    
• The AKC welcomes spayed and neutered dogs to participate in all phases of obedience, tracking, herding, lure coursing, earthdog, agility, Canine Good Citizen testing and Junior Showmanship, as well as most field work.

An experienced breeder is your best source of information and advice on the intricacies of breeding. The easiest way find one is through your local dog related organization.

Source : AKC in conjunction with the AKC RDO Day. September 14, 2003