Belgian Sheperd Dog Buyers Guide

The following is provided as a guide for what to look for in a breeder and potential puppy.

• Find a style of Belgian you like
  
  The Belgian Shepherd Breed Standard is based on the ideal specimen of the breed. It's up to the individual as to how it's interpreted. For this reason the type/style of Belgians may differ between kennels. Find a Kennel whose type and consistency you admire.

• Use a registered breeder
  
  Most registered breeders adhere to the guidelines set by the Australian National Canine Association (main canine controlling body). Contact a few different breeders; ask them their purpose for breeding and what they hope to achieve from their future litters.

• Make sure your puppy comes with papers
  
  Although you may use a registered breeder, this does not necessarily mean that your puppy is registered. Some registered breeders don't register every litter or only partially register a litter. Your Puppy should be registered on either the limited or full registry and comes with papers (the originals or at least a copy) should be supplied as evidence.

• View the parent/s
  
  Ask to see both parents. Many breeders use outside stud dogs to find the best match for their bitch. If an outside stud dog has been used at least view the dam.

• What to look for in a puppy?
  
  The puppy should be in good health; have a shiny coat, bright eyes and be well covered. You want a puppy that's going to suit your lifestyle. Watch them play see how they react to one another and people.

• The puppy should be:
  
  - Vaccinated
  - Wormed
  - Heart wormed
  - Micro chipped

• Health Issues:
  
  Ask about health issues affecting the breed and their kennel. For example epilepsy and hip dysplasia are known problems in some Belgian lines.
  
  Make sure the sire and dam have been hip scored and a certificate of currency is provided.
  The average hip score for a Belgian Shepherd is 9.28 (this is a combined score of both hips). Hip scoring doesn't ensure that the puppies of sound parents won't have hip dysplasia. It's merely a test to minimise the chance.
  
  Note: the lower the hip score the better. Hips are scored out of 109.

• A diet list & other information should be provided
  
  The breeder should supply you with a diet list (bare minimum) and other information pertaining to the puppies health i.e. vaccination certificates.

• Be wary of purchasing a puppy whose circumstance is unfortunate
  
  This could lead to serious health problems and perpetuates the problem of irresponsible breeders.

• Go with your gut instinct
  
  Lastly don't be persuaded into purchasing a puppy you're not entirely content with. This pup will hopefully be with you for the next 10-15 years, so choose wisely!

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