QUESTIONS BREEDERS MAY ASK BUYERS

1.      Have you ever owned dogs before and specifically, a Basset Hound?  Familiarity with owning dogs ensures a higher success rate in placing a puppy in a new home.  It is a particular “plus” if a perspective buyer has had the experience of owning a unique breed like the Basset Hound.

2.      Why do you want a Basset Hound?  It is important to determine if the relaxed, low-slung Basset Hound will be the right choice for a new buyer. This short-legged breed, for example, is not the best choice for an avid jogger or person who wants to play a game of catch with their dog.

3.     Do you have a fenced backyard?  Being a scent hound, Bassets tend to roam and may become injured or lost.  Chaining a Basset (or any breed) to an outdoor dog house or tree is inhumane as well as dangerous.

4.      Where will your new puppy live?  The friendly, affectionate Basset Hound craves the companionship of other animals or people, It will be happiest in the house where it can be cared for by a loving family.

5.      How long will the puppy be alone during the day?  Breeders are reluctant to place a Basset puppy in a home where it will be alone for excessively long periods.  The companionship of another dog or cat will go a long way in providing companionship for a new dog.

6.      Are you willing to spay or neuter a pet Basset Hound?  Spaying or neutering is usually required by responsible breeders who wish to protect their valuable bloodlines.

7.      Can you afford not only the purchase price of this pet but also the maintenance?  New owners need to be aware of how much it costs to keep their pet healthy and well-taken care of.

8.      Is the decision to purchase a Basset Hound a unanimous one in your family?  Bassets that go into a family situation where not everyone wanted this unique breed may start out with a couple strikes against them.

QUESTIONS TO ASK A BREEDER

1.      How long have you been breeding AKC Basset Hounds? Good breeders have usually been breeding for a minimum of 3 or 4 years.

2.      Do you belong to the Basset Hound Club of America or a regional Basset Hound Club?  Membership in these clubs involves working within a code of ethics which helps give credibility to a breeder.

3.      What type of activities do your dogs participate in? Many breeders show their Basset Hounds and may participate in showing, obedience, agility, tracking or field trialing competition.

4.      Do you have any puppies available, and if not, when do you plan another litter? If they have puppies available, the majority of breeders will put your name on a waiting list.  Other breeders whose lists are full are usually more than willing to refer you to reputable breeders in their area.

5.      What kind of warranty do you offer? Most breeders will guarantee the health of a puppy for a specific period of time and if something goes wrong will offer to replace the puppy with another one or give a full refund. Warranties differ with each breeder.

6.     What is the price of the dog? A pet puppy is usually less expensive than a show  prospect.

7.      What type of paperwork do you provide and will it include proof of vaccinations and worming? Breeders should provide a Bill of Sale, a contract detailing the conditions of the sale and a copy of the puppy’s health record. In some cases, breeders may withhold AKC registration papers until they have received notification from your veterinarian that the puppy has been spayed or neutered.