* Will explain planned breedings and the qualities they are looking for through linebreeding or outcrossing.

* Have a lifetime commitment to replace a dog with genetic faults or help the owner deal with the problem.

* Loves the breed and can talk at length about the background, their uses and ideal type.

* Has a serious investment in dog equipment, crates, tables, kennels, puppy pens etc.

* Belongs to National and Regional clubs, indicating a love for the sport and exhibits their own dogs to see how their stock  measures up in the show ring.

* Shows the sire and dam in a clean environment.  Helps the buyer evaluate and choose the puppy that is best suited for them.  Explains the difference in a show or pet pick.

* Prices may seem at the high end if the range...not cut rate.  Price does not reflect all that is invested in the dog.

*  After purchase, will be available to answer any and all questions, help with grooming or training of new puppy.  Willing to take pup back if for whatever reason you cannot keep it rather than see if disposed of inappropriately.  Sells pets with spay/neuter agreement.

* Their motive for breeding is to them considered "fun", "good for the kids" or to "make money".  Doesn't screen buyers and seldom refuses to sell, even if the buyer is unsuitable.

* Breeds family pet to any convenient pet of the same breed just to have purebred AKC pups.  Has no concern for genetics, bloodlines, breed improvement or health clearances.

* Though pet may be well loved it was not checked for inheritable hip, elbow, cardiac or thyroid problems.

* No health guarantees are offered beyond proof of shots.  Unqualified to give help if needed.

* Seller has little knowledge of breed history or breed standard.

* Puppies raised in makeshift accommodations, indicating lack of long term investment in breeding.

* Even when called "just pets" may produce AKC papers or championship pedigree as proof of quality.  Yet seller does not increase his/her own knowledge through participation in national or local breed clubs.  Doesn't show their own dog to "prove" quality.

* May be unwilling to show the buyer the entire litter.  Can't or won't compare or critique pups or pups ancestors.

* Prices on the low end range since must move them quickly.

* No concern for the future of individual pups or breeds as a whole.  Does not use AKC's limited registration or ask for spay/neuter guard against breeding or substandard pets.  If you can't keep the pup, tells you to take the dog to the pound or to sell it.