for sketchy backyard breeders. Not that their arent good ones on there too, but you have to be SUPER careful.
You absolutely want to see:
A) Contracts with spay/neuter clauses for pets
B) Health testing for conditions common to the breed, be it hip dysplasia, eye conditions, problems with the shoulders, stifle, etc. Not just vet checks, but OFA evaluations (
www.offa.org). Contractual health guarantees (ie return on purchase price for genetic defects)
C) Some sort of independent evaluation to show that the breeder is not just in it for profit but rather to achieve some goal like dogs who excel in obedience, agility, conformation, field tests, etc.
D)Breeder committment from cradle to grave. A responsible breeder will require first right of refusal before you sell the dog or surrender the dog to a shelter. Not that you would ever use this, but a good breeder wouldnt let their dogs end up just anywhere.
These are the hallmarks of a responsible breeder
