Choosing a Breeder Lhasa Apso Breeding and Puppies

Questions to Ask a Lhasa Apso Breeder Before Buying a Puppy

Britta Thygesen 28.04.2023 0

As you begin your journey to find the perfect furry addition to your family, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed and uncertain about where to start. The search for a reputable Lhasa Apso breeder can be particularly challenging, as there are many factors to consider to ensure you bring home a healthy and well-adjusted puppy. With so much at stake, you need to ask the right questions before making any commitments. In this article, we’ll guide you through the essential questions you should ask a Lhasa Apso breeder to ensure your future furry companion is everything you want and need.

Why You Need to Ask the Right Questions

When you’re looking for a Lhasa Apso puppy, it’s crucial to ask the right questions to ensure you get a healthy and well-adjusted dog. Finding a responsible breeder is key, and it’s up to you to do your due diligence before making a commitment. Why is it so important to ask the right questions? For one, it can help you avoid potential problems down the line, both with your new pet’s health and with your relationship with the breeder. Additionally, getting to know the breeder and their practices can give you a better idea of what to expect from your new furry friend. In the following sections, we’ll delve into the reasons why it’s crucial to ask the right questions and provide you with a list of questions to ask. You can get more tips on choosing a responsible Lhasa Apso breeder in our related article here.

It’s Important to Get a Healthy Lhasa Apso

Strongly emphasizing the importance of getting a healthy Lhasa Apso is imperative. This breed is prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia, eye problems, and skin allergies. It is essential that you ask the breeder about any health screenings they have done to ensure the puppy’s parents are healthy.

To give your Lhasa Apso the best chance at a long and healthy life, you should only purchase from a responsible breeder who takes the health of their dogs seriously. A reputable breeder will have no problem providing you with health screening results and certifications, as well as disclosing any potential health issues in the puppy’s bloodline.

When dealing with a responsible and reputable breeder, not only will they ensure that the breeding dogs are healthy but also that the puppies are adequately vaccinated, dewormed and checked by a veterinarian. They will be willing to provide you with proof of any necessary vaccinations and medical care that the puppy received while in their care.

On the contrary, buying a puppy from an irresponsible breeder who does not prioritize the healthcare of their dogs may lead to additional expenses and even heartbreak in the future. It is potentially risky to adopt a puppy from a breeder who has not carried out any health screening; such a puppy may suffer from an illness that could have been avoided with proper screening.

A healthy puppy is typically more energetic, alert, and playful, which can contribute to a wonderful and fulfilling relationship between the owner and their furry companion.

It is highly recommended to only purchase a Lhasa Apso puppy from a responsible breeder who takes the dogs’ health seriously. Always ask for proof of health screening, vaccinations, and medical care while in their care. For more information about the importance of finding a responsible Lhasa Apso breeder, check out our related article.

Lhasa Apso Puppies Need to Be Well-Adjusted

Lhasa Apso puppies need to be well-adjusted in order to grow up to be confident and happy dogs. It’s important that the breeder you choose puts effort into early socialization of their puppies. Lhasa Apso puppies should be exposed to a variety of stimuli, such as different textures, sounds, and smells. They should also have opportunities to interact with humans, children, and other animals.

When you visit a breeder, ask them about their efforts to socialize the puppies. Do they provide toys and playtime? Do they expose the puppies to different environments, such as the outdoors or other homes? Socialization is essential during a puppy’s first few weeks of life, so make sure the breeder is doing their part.

Additionally, it’s important to consider the temperament of the parents when choosing a Lhasa Apso puppy. Ask the breeder about the temperament of both the mother and father, as this can give you an idea of what to expect from your own puppy.

Proper socialization is also necessary to prevent behavioral problems down the road. Lhasa Apso puppies who are not well-adjusted may be anxious, aggressive, or fearful as adults. This can lead to difficulty training the dog and may even cause safety issues for both the dog and humans around them.

Choose a responsible Lhasa Apso breeder who prioritizes the health and happiness of their puppies. You can learn more about what to look for in a breeder by checking out our guide to choosing a responsible Lhasa Apso breeder. It’s also important to be aware of red flags to watch out for when choosing a breeder.

You Want to Know What You’re Getting Into

Welcoming a Lhasa Apso puppy into your home is a big decision that should not be taken lightly. These adorable and feisty dogs require quite a bit of care and attention, and it’s important to know what you’re getting into before making a purchase. Here are some key things to consider:

Time commitment: Lhasa Apso puppies can be quite demanding when it comes to time and attention. They require daily exercise, care, and socialization to grow up to be healthy, well-adjusted dogs. If you have a busy schedule or many other commitments, a Lhasa Apso may not be the best fit for your lifestyle.
Breed characteristics: Before bringing a Lhasa Apso puppy into your home, it’s important to research the breed’s unique characteristics. For example, Lhasa Apsos can be independent and stubborn, which may make them more challenging to train than other breeds.
Grooming needs: Lhasa Apsos have a long, thick coat that requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and free of tangles. If you’re not willing to commit to regular grooming sessions, you may want to consider a different breed.
Training: As mentioned earlier, Lhasa Apsos can be stubborn, which means they may require extra patience and persistence when it comes to training. Consider whether you have the time and dedication to train your puppy consistently and with positivity.
Financial commitment: Lhasa Apso puppies can come with a hefty price tag, but that’s just the beginning of the financial commitment. You’ll need to budget for food, toys, equipment, and veterinary care throughout the lifetime of your dog. Make sure you’re prepared to make this financial commitment before bringing a Lhasa Apso into your home.

By taking the time to consider all of these factors, you’ll be better prepared for what lies ahead when you welcome a Lhasa Apso puppy into your home.

Questions You Should Ask a Lhasa Apso Breeder

Now that you understand the importance of asking the right questions when choosing a Lhasa Apso puppy, it’s time to dive into the specific inquiries you should make when talking to a breeder. These questions will help you determine if the breeder is reputable and if their puppies are healthy and well-socialized. By asking these questions, you’ll have a better idea of what to expect when you bring your new Lhasa Apso puppy home. So, grab a notepad and pen, and let’s go over the important questions you should ask a Lhasa Apso breeder.

1. Are the Parents of the Puppies On-Site?

One important question to ask a Lhasa Apso breeder before buying a puppy is whether the parents of the puppies are on-site. This is a crucial question because you want to ensure that the breeder is not acquiring the puppies from a puppy mill or other unethical source.

It is highly recommended to visit and see the parents in person before making a purchase. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Question:	Are the parents of the puppies on-site?
Why it’s important to ask:	You want to make sure that the breeder is not using unethical sources for the puppies and that the breeder is taking good care of the parents.
What to look for in a response:	The breeder should be able to easily show and introduce the parents of the puppies. If they are hesitant or refuse to show you the parents, it could be a red flag.

Perplexity: As someone who cares about the well-being of a future pet, you may be curious whether the breeder has the parents of the puppies on-site. Not only does this help ensure the welfare of the parents, but it also prevents unethical sources from being used. But what should you look for in the breeder’s response to this inquiry? Here are some guidelines to follow.

Avoiding repeating n-grams: While the presence of the parents may speak to the breeder’s practices and sources, it is important to determine the conditions in which they are living. Make sure to inquire about their living conditions and any negative behaviors that could inform the socialization process of the puppies. Additionally, simply because the parents are on-site does not guarantee their health or suitability for breeding. It’s crucial to also ask about health screenings and any genetic issues that could arise.

2. Can I Meet the Parents of the Lhasa Apso Puppy I’m Interested In?

Meeting the parents of your potential Lhasa Apso puppy is an important step. By meeting both parents, you can get a good idea of what temperament your puppy may have as an adult, as well as what type of health issues they may be prone to. It also gives you the opportunity to see how the breeder keeps their dogs and how they interact with them. When asking a breeder if you can meet the parents, it’s important to be prepared with follow-up questions to ensure you receive all the information you need. Here are some questions to ask:

Can you describe the temperament of each parent?
What type of health screenings have the parents had?
Have the parents been bred before?
What is the living situation of the parents? Do they live in the breeder’s home or in a separate facility?
Can I see documentation of the parents’ health and pedigree?
How long have the breeder had the parents?

Keep in mind that if a breeder is unwilling to let you meet the parents, it could be a red flag. It is important to trust your instincts when choosing a breeder and make sure that you feel comfortable with their practices. By meeting both parents, you can get a better idea of what you can expect from your new furry family member.

3. Have the Breeding Dogs Been Screened for Health Problems?

Knowing whether the breeding dogs have been screened for health problems is crucial when looking for a Lhasa Apso puppy. It ensures that the puppies have a low risk of developing genetic diseases common in Lhasa Apsos. When speaking with a breeder, ask if they have had the parents screened for genetic or hereditary conditions that commonly affect Lhasa Apsos.

Many reputable breeders will have their breeding dogs screened for health problems like hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, among others. Breeding dogs that are found to have health issues can be removed from the breeding program, which helps to prevent passing on hereditary diseases to their offspring. Make sure to ask if both parents have been screened, as some health issues may be recessive, and both parents could be carriers without showing symptoms.

To help you keep track of the breeder’s responses and to compare them to other breeders, consider creating a table to take note of their screening results. Here’s an example:

Breeder	Hip Dysplasia	Progressive Retinal Atrophy	Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease
Breeder A	Both parents screened and cleared	Both parents screened and cleared	Both parents screened and cleared
Breeder B	No screening results provided	Both parents screened and cleared	One parent screened and cleared, other parent not screened
Breeder C	Both parents screened, one parent found to have mild hip dysplasia	One parent screened and cleared, other parent not screened	One parent screened and cleared, other parent not screened

As you can see, some breeders may not have had their breeding dogs screened, or may have only done so for certain conditions. This information can be helpful in determining which breeder is the best fit for you and your needs. It’s important to remember that some conditions may not show up until the dog is older, so even if both parents have been screened, there is a small chance that the puppy may still develop a health issue. However, by asking the right questions and doing your research, you can find a breeder who is committed to producing healthy and well-adjusted Lhasa Apso puppies.

4. Can I See Proof of Health Testing?

It’s crucial to ask a Lhasa Apso breeder if their breeding dogs have undergone health testing. It ensures that the puppies they produce won’t suffer from any genetic conditions or illnesses that could have been prevented if the breeding parents had been screened.

When asking about health testing, it’s important to ask the breeder to provide proof of the screening results. This is to ensure that they’re actually performing the tests. Some breeders might claim that they’ve performed the necessary tests but are unable to provide proof of it.

You can ask the breeder to show you the results of the health tests by providing a document that states the results of the tests. It’s essential to understand what the document entails and what it means for the puppies that they’re selling.

Here’s an example of a health testing document that breeders might provide:

Health Test	Result
Hip Dysplasia	Clear
Eye Screening	Clear
Patellar Luxation	Clear

In the table above, you can see that there are three health tests listed: Hip Dysplasia, Eye Screening, and Patellar Luxation. The breeder has provided proof that the breeding dog has been screened for these conditions and has received a “clear” result, meaning that they don’t have these conditions.

It’s essential to ask the breeder what health tests they performed on the breeding dogs and to request documents that show the results of these health tests. If a breeder is hesitant to show these documents or cannot provide any clear proof of testing, it’s a red flag that they might not prioritize the health of their puppies.

5. How Often Are Your Breeding Dogs Bred?

One important question to ask a potential Lhasa Apso breeder is how often their breeding dogs are bred. It’s essential to ensure that the breeding process is not taking a toll on the health and wellbeing of the dogs. Here are some things to consider:

The ideal breeding schedule: Breeding dogs should ideally be bred once a year or less. This allows sufficient time for the dog to recover from the stress of pregnancy and delivery before getting pregnant again.
Impact on the dog’s health: Dogs that are bred too frequently can suffer from various health issues like nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, and weakened immune systems. They may also experience premature aging and a reduced lifespan.
Breeder’s response: When you ask this question, the breeder should be able to provide a confident and clear answer that reflects their values and approach to dog breeding. They should be able to explain their breeding program and how they prioritize the health and welfare of their dogs over making profits.
Number of litters: You should also ask how many litters the breeding dog has had and how many puppies were in each litter. This information can give you an insight into how experienced the breeder is and how well-cared-for the dogs are.

Inquiring about the breeding schedule of the breeding dogs can help you make an informed decision about the suitability of the breeder and the quality of the Lhasa Apso puppies they produce.

6. How Are the Lhasa Apso Puppies Socialized?

It is important to know how the Lhasa Apso puppies are socialized before making a purchase. Socialization is a crucial aspect in a dog’s early development, and it greatly affects their behavior and temperament in the future. Here are some questions that you can ask a breeder to determine if their puppies are well-socialized:

Question	Response
1. How do you socialize your Lhasa Apso puppies?	The breeder should have a clear plan for socializing their puppies, including exposing them to different people, places, and sounds. Socializing should start as early as possible, preferably between 3 to 14 weeks of age.
2. What kind of human interaction do the puppies receive?	The puppies should be handled and played with regularly by different people, both adults and children. This helps them get comfortable around humans and reduces their risk of developing aggression or anxiety.
3. Do the puppies get to interact with other dogs?	Puppies should have opportunities to play with other dogs to help them learn how to properly socialize and communicate with other canines.
4. Are the puppies exposed to different environments?	The puppies should be exposed to different indoor and outdoor environments to help them become more adaptable and less susceptible to anxiety caused by unfamiliar surroundings.
5. What kind of experiences have the puppies had?	The breeder should provide an overview of the different experiences that the puppies have had during socialization. These may include meeting new people and dogs, going on car rides, and exploring different environments.

Asking these questions will give you a better idea of how well a breeder socializes their Lhasa Apso puppies. A good breeder will have a thorough and structured socialization plan that exposes the puppies to a range of experiences and environments, helping them become well-adjusted and adaptable dogs in the future.

7. What Kind of Temperament Can I Expect from the Puppies?

When bringing a new Lhasa Apso puppy into your home, their temperament is an important factor to consider. Asking the breeder about the temperament of their puppies can help match you with a puppy that will fit well with your lifestyle and personality.

Here are some important questions to ask the breeder:

Question	Why it’s Important
What are the typical personalities of your Lhasa Apso puppies?	Understanding the personalities of the puppies can help you choose a puppy that will fit well in your household. For example, if you have young children, you may want a lively and playful puppy rather than a shy or reserved one.
Do you think a Lhasa Apso puppy is a good fit for my lifestyle?	The breeder should have a sense of your lifestyle and be able to match you with a puppy that will be happy and healthy in your home. For example, if you work long hours, you may want a puppy that is more independent and able to entertain themselves during the day.
How do you socialize your puppies to ensure good temperaments?	Socialization is key to a puppy’s temperament. Puppies that are well socialized with other dogs, people, and experiences are more likely to be confident, happy, and outgoing as adult dogs. The breeder should be able to describe their socialization program and provide examples of experiences the puppies have had.
Have you noticed any personality traits that are common among your Lhasa Apso puppies?	While each puppy is unique, there may be certain personality traits that are common among puppies from a particular breeding line or litter. Knowing about these traits can help you choose a puppy that will fit well with your household.

Asking about the temperament of Lhasa Apso puppies is an important step in finding the right puppy for your home. A good breeder should be able to provide detailed answers and help you choose a puppy that will be a great match for your personality and lifestyle.

8. Will the Lhasa Apso Puppies Have Their First Shots?

When it comes to ensuring the health of your Lhasa Apso puppy, vaccinations are an essential aspect to consider. Before buying the puppy, make sure to ask the breeder if the puppy has received its first shots. It is important that a puppy has received at least one vaccination before leaving its mother.

To provide the best protection against infectious diseases, puppies should receive a series of vaccinations over the course of several weeks. It is important to ask the breeder about the vaccination schedule and ensure that the puppy has received vaccines according to recommended guidelines.

If the puppy has not received its first shots, it is important to factor in the cost of these shots when considering the overall price of the puppy. Additionally, schedule your puppy’s next round of vaccinations with your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Remember that vaccinations are essential to your puppy’s health and well-being. Make sure that your Lhasa Apso puppy is up to date on all vaccinations before letting it socialize with other dogs or go outside. Don’t hesitate to ask the breeder about the vaccination status of the puppies, as it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Here are some essential questions to ask regarding vaccinations:

What vaccines has the puppy received?
When were the vaccinations given?
When is the next vaccination due?
Do you provide any documentation for these vaccinations?
Do you provide any information on when the puppy will need future vaccinations?

By asking these questions, you can ensure that you are taking the necessary steps to keep your Lhasa Apso puppy safe and healthy. Don’t take vaccinations for granted – they are an essential aspect of puppy care.

9. What Kind of Health Guarantee Do You Offer?

Before committing to buying a Lhasa Apso puppy from a breeder, it’s important to ask about the health guarantee they offer. Bringing a new puppy into your home is a big responsibility and expense, so you want to ensure that the puppy you choose is healthy and well taken care of.

Here are some questions to ask the breeder about their health guarantee:

What specific health issues does the guarantee cover? Some guarantees only cover genetic health issues, while others may cover a wider range of health conditions. Make sure you fully understand what is and isn’t covered before agreeing to any guarantee.
How long does the guarantee last? Most guarantees will only cover the puppy for a certain amount of time after purchase. Make sure you know how long you have to report any issues to the breeder.
What is the process for reporting a health issue? Find out who you need to contact if your puppy develops a health issue covered by the guarantee, and what steps you need to take to receive compensation or assistance.
What kind of compensation or assistance is provided? Some breeders may offer a partial refund, while others may offer to cover the cost of veterinary bills related to the health issue. Ensure you understand what kind of assistance you can expect from the breeder.
Are there any conditions or requirements that must be met to activate the guarantee? Some guarantees may only be valid if certain conditions are met. For example, the guarantee may be void if the puppy is not taken to the vet for regular check-ups or if the puppy is not fed a specific diet.
Is the guarantee transferable? If you ever need to rehome the puppy, it’s important to know whether the guarantee can be transferred to the new owner.

By asking these questions, you can ensure that you have a clear understanding of the breeder’s health guarantee and feel confident that you are making an informed decision when choosing to purchase a Lhasa Apso puppy from them.

10. Do You Provide Any Support After the Purchase?

Asking a Lhasa Apso breeder if they provide any support after the purchase is a crucial question that can help you prepare for the future. It’s important to choose a breeder who is willing to provide ongoing support and guidance, especially if you’re a first-time owner.

To help you keep track of what the breeder offers, you can use this table to write down their answers:

Question	Response
Do you provide any support after the purchase?
Will you be available to answer questions during the puppy’s first few weeks at its new home?
What kind of support will you provide?
Is there an emergency number I can call if I have any concerns?
Will you offer advice on training and socialization?

As you can see, there are several questions you can ask the breeder about post-purchase support. It’s important to choose a breeder who is dedicated to helping you raise a happy and healthy Lhasa Apso, and who is available to answer your questions and concerns.

Remember, purchasing a Lhasa Apso puppy is a big responsibility, and finding the right breeder can make all the difference in the world. By asking the right questions, you can ensure that you’re making a well-informed decision and bringing home a new furry family member who will bring you joy for years to come.

Red Flags to Watch Out For When Choosing a Breeder

As much as you want to find a reputable Lhasa Apso breeder, there are still those out there who put profit above the welfare of their dogs. So, how do you spot them? Keep an eye out for these red flags when choosing a breeder. These signs can help you avoid purchasing a Lhasa Apso puppy that may have health and behavioral issues in the future. Stay alert and informed to make the best decision for you and your future furry friend.

1. The Breeder Can’t Provide Health Screening Results

When searching for a Lhasa Apso breeder, it’s crucial to ask about health screening results. A responsible breeder will always have their breeding dogs tested for any potential health issues to ensure that their puppies are healthy. If the breeder can’t provide health screening results, it’s a major red flag, and you should think twice before buying a puppy from them. Here are some reasons why:

The puppies might have health problems: Without proper health screening, the breeder can’t guarantee the puppies’ health. Puppies from breeding dogs that haven’t been screened are more likely to have genetic health issues, which can lead to hefty vet bills or even worse outcomes.
The breeder might be cutting corners: It’s possible that the breeder is cutting corners by not conducting health screening tests, which can be expensive. A breeder who isn’t willing to invest in the health of their breeding dogs might be more focused on profit than the wellbeing of the dogs and puppies.
The breeder might not be knowledgeable: A breeder who can’t provide health screening results might not have the necessary knowledge required to breed healthy Lhasa Apsos. Breeding involves much more than just putting two dogs together and hoping for healthy puppies. Without proper health screening, a breeder might not understand how genetics and health issues can be passed down to the puppies.

When searching for a Lhasa Apso breeder, ask about the breeding dogs’ health screening results. If the breeder can’t provide these results, it’s time to look for another breeder who prioritizes the health of their dogs and puppies. Remember that a healthy puppy starts with responsible breeding practices.

2. The Breeder Seems to Care More About Money Than the Dogs

When looking for a Lhasa Apso breeder, one of the biggest red flags you should watch out for is a breeder that seems to care more about money than the dogs. Here are some signs that this may be the case:

The breeder is pushy: A breeder who is more concerned with making a sale than ensuring you and their dogs are a good fit may come across as pushy. They may pressure you to make a purchase quickly, rather than giving you the time to ask questions and get to know their dogs.
The breeder doesn’t answer your questions: If a breeder avoids answering your questions, they may not have the welfare of their dogs in mind. A reputable breeder will be happy to answer any questions you have, as they want to ensure their dogs go to a loving home.
The breeder doesn’t ask you any questions: A breeder that doesn’t ask you any questions about yourself or your living situation may not be concerned about where their puppies are going. A good breeder will want to know that their dogs are going to a home that can provide them with the care and attention they require.
The breeder has a lot of puppies available: If a breeder has too many puppies available, it may be a sign that they are more concerned with making a profit than the well-being of their dogs. A good breeder will only have a limited number of litters each year, as they want to ensure each litter receives individual attention.
The breeder doesn’t provide health guarantees: A breeder that doesn’t provide any health guarantees or doesn’t seem concerned with the health of their dogs may only be interested in making a quick profit. This could ultimately lead to costly veterinary bills for you and suffering for the dogs.

Remember, when you’re looking for a Lhasa Apso breeder, it’s important to find someone who is passionate about the breed and has the welfare of their dogs at heart, rather than just making money. By asking the right questions and doing your research, you can find a reputable breeder who will provide you with a healthy and happy Lhasa Apso puppy.

3. The Breeder Doesn’t Allow You to Meet the Parents

One red flag to watch out for when choosing a Lhasa Apso breeder is if they don’t allow you to meet the parents of the puppy you’re interested in. This is a concerning issue because meeting the parents can give you insight into the potential temperament and health of your future furry friend.

Reasons why a breeder might not allow you to meet the parents:

Reason	Description
Health concerns	The parents may be in poor health or quarantine due to an illness, so the breeder doesn’t want to risk spreading the disease to visitors or their other dogs.
Poor living conditions	The breeder may be keeping the puppies in unhealthy, cramped living spaces or may not want visitors to see their poor living conditions.
Unfavorable temperament	The breeder may not want you to see the aggressive or shy behavior of the parents that could reflect in their puppies.
Unethical practices	Some breeders may not be breeding purebred Lhasa Apsos or could be using dangerous breeding practices that they don’t want you to discover.

No matter the reason for not being able to meet the parents, it’s important to be cautious when working with such a breeder. Without being able to meet the parents, there’s no way to determine whether or not the Lhasa Apso you will potentially take home is healthy and well-adjusted. A reputable breeder will always want you to meet the parents and provide you with as much information about their breeding process as possible.

4. The Breeder Has Multiple Breeds On-Site

Multiple Breeds On-Site

It’s not uncommon for breeders to have multiple breeds of dogs on their property, but it can be a red flag when it comes to finding a reputable Lhasa Apso breeder. Here’s why:

Issue	Explanation
Less Focus on Lhasa Apsos	When a breeder has multiple breeds on-site, it’s likely they are spreading their attention and resources thin. This means they may not be prioritizing Lhasa Apsos as much as they should, which could lead to health or behavioral issues.
Possible Puppy Mills	Some breeders who have multiple breeds on-site are actually operating puppy mills, where dogs are bred solely for profit in subpar conditions. These breeders often have no concern for the health or wellness of their dogs.
Limited Expertise	Breeders who focus solely on one breed have often spent years researching and breeding that specific breed. When a breeder has multiple breeds, they may not have the same level of expertise and knowledge as a breeder who solely focuses on Lhasa Apsos.

It’s important to note that having multiple breeds on-site doesn’t automatically make a breeder untrustworthy. However, it’s important to ask questions and ensure that the breeder is dedicated to breeding and caring for Lhasa Apsos specifically. A good breeder will be happy to discuss their experience with the breed and talk about the steps they take to ensure the health and well-being of their Lhasa Apso puppies.

5. The Breeder Doesn’t Ask You Any Questions

When choosing a Lhasa Apso breeder, it’s essential to find one who is invested in ensuring their puppies go to good homes. A breeder who doesn’t ask questions about you or your living situation is a major red flag. If the breeder is only concerned with selling the puppy and not about the pup’s well-being, it’s best to look elsewhere. Here are some specific reasons why a breeder who doesn’t ask you any questions is a cause for concern:

Possible puppy mill. Breeders who operate puppy mills are only interested in turning a profit and don’t care about the welfare of their animals. If the breeder isn’t interested in finding out about you, they could be a puppy mill “factory” churning out puppies without any regard for their well-being.
Lack of individual attention. A good breeder who cares about their dogs and puppies wants to ensure the new owners can provide a suitable home and environment for the pup. Every dog is unique, and the breeder needs to know things like your lifestyle, family situation, and whether you have other pets to recommend a puppy with a suitable temperament. A breeder who doesn’t ask questions is unlikely to provide any such guidance.
Risk of getting the wrong Lhasa Apso. Without understanding your needs or lifestyle, the breeder may not recommend the right puppy to you. A Lhasa Apso with a docile temperament may not be the right fit for a family with young children, whereas a more active and outgoing Lhasa Apso may be a better fit. If the breeder doesn’t ask any questions, it’s unlikely you’ll end up with the Lhasa Apso that’s right for you.

A Lhasa Apso breeder who doesn’t ask you any questions is a red flag. It could indicate the breeder doesn’t care about the welfare or individuality of their puppies or may even be running a puppy mill. Be wary of breeders like this, and seek out those who are genuinely passionate about their dogs and ensure that their puppies go to suitable homes.

6. The Breeder Has Trouble Answering Your Questions

When you are looking for a Lhasa Apso puppy, it’s important that the breeder can answer your questions in a knowledgeable and confident manner. However, if the breeder has trouble answering your questions or seems vague or evasive, this is a major red flag that should not be ignored.

If you encounter a breeder struggling to answer your questions, it may indicate that they don’t have a good understanding of their Lhasa Apso breeding program. This should make you wonder about the quality of the puppies that you may purchase from them.

Some possible reasons for the breeder struggling to answer your questions include that they might be new to breeding and still learning themselves, or they may not be putting the same level of care and attention into their breeding program that reputable breeders would. Another possibility is that they are not being upfront with you, and avoiding answering your questions because they know that their answers will not be satisfactory.

Regardless of the reason, it’s always best to be cautious and skeptical when a breeder struggles to answer your questions about their Lhasa Apso breeding program. You want to buy a puppy from a breeder who is passionate about the breed and dedicated to producing healthy, happy puppies. If the breeder is unable to answer your questions or makes you feel uncertain, it’s better to keep looking for a more qualified and trustworthy Lhasa Apso breeder.

Here are some possible questions that a less reputable breeder may struggle to answer:

What kind of health screening do you perform?
How often do your breeding dogs mate?
Can I see documentation proving your breeders are AKC registered?
How do you socialize your puppies?

Remember, the right breeder should be forthcoming, knowledgeable, and professional in their interactions with you. If you encounter a breeder who seems hesitant, evasive, or reluctant to answer your questions, do not hesitate to move on to another breeder who provides you with the confidence you need. In the end, it’s your responsibility to ensure that you choose a reputable Lhasa Apso breeder who puts their dogs’ health and well-being first.

7. The Breeder Has No Reviews or Negative Reviews Online

When looking for a Lhasa Apso breeder, it’s important to do your research and check for reviews online. One red flag to watch out for is a breeder that either has no reviews or negative reviews online. A lack of reviews may indicate that the breeder is new or not very active in their business, but it could also mean that they have something to hide. On the other hand, if a breeder has negative reviews, it’s important to read them carefully and see if there are any concerning patterns or issues that multiple reviewers have experienced.

Here are some reasons why no reviews or negative reviews should raise concern:

Poor reputation: A breeder with poor reviews may have a reputation for selling unhealthy or poorly tempered puppies. This could indicate that they don’t take their responsibilities as a breeder seriously, and may not be invested in the health and wellbeing of the dogs they produce.
Lack of transparency: A breeder without reviews or with negative reviews may be trying to hide something. Whether it’s a history of selling sick puppies, poor breeding practices, or a lack of support for new puppy owners, a breeder that is not transparent about their practices raises red flags.
No references: Without positive reviews or references from past customers, it’s difficult to verify the breeder’s claims about their puppies and their breeding practices. This lack of information can make it hard to trust the breeder, and raises concerns about the legitimacy of their business.
No support: A reputable breeder should offer support and resources for new puppy owners. This can include advice on feeding and training, documents and records for the puppy’s health and vaccinations, and a guarantee of sorts. Without these assurances or support, it can be difficult to care for your new puppy and address any issues that may arise.

A lack of reviews or negative reviews for a Lhasa Apso breeder should raise concerns about their reputation, transparency, and support for new puppy owners. It’s important to do your research and choose a breeder with a positive reputation and supportive practices that can provide healthy, happy puppies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding a reputable Lhasa Apso breeder is critical to ensuring that you adopt a healthy, well-adjusted puppy that will fit well with your family. By asking the right questions, you’ll be able to gain valuable information about the breeder’s practices, the health of the puppies, and the temperament of the breed.

Remember, always prioritize health and temperament over convenience or affordability. If a breeder seems more interested in making a sale than in ensuring that their dogs have healthy and happy lives, they may not be the right fit for you.

Don’t be afraid to ask for proof of health testing or to meet the parents of the puppies you’re interested in. A reputable breeder will always be happy to answer your questions and provide any information you need to make an informed decision.

If you encounter any of the red flags we’ve discussed, don’t be afraid to walk away from the breeder and keep looking. There are many reputable Lhasa Apso breeders out there, and with a bit of research and diligence, you’re sure to find the perfect puppy for you and your family.

Always remember to prioritize the health and well-being of your new pet above all else, and you’ll be rewarded with many years of love and companionship.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I know if a Lhasa Apso is the right breed for me?

Consider the breed’s temperament, activity level, grooming needs, and any potential health issues. Research and discussions with breeders or Lhasa Apso owners can help you make an informed decision.

2. How often should a Lhasa Apso be groomed?

Lhasa Apsos should be groomed at least once a week to prevent matting and keep their coat clean and healthy. Professional grooming every few months is also recommended.

3. Do Lhasa Apsos shed a lot?

No, Lhasa Apsos have a low-shedding coat, but regular grooming is still necessary to prevent matting.

4. How much exercise does a Lhasa Apso need?

Lhasa Apsos have a moderate activity level and require daily walks and playtime, but they don’t need as much exercise as some other breeds.

5. Are Lhasa Apsos good with children?

Lhasa Apsos can be good with children if they are socialized properly from a young age and supervised around younger children. However, they may be better suited for homes with older children due to their small size and potentially sensitive nature.

6. Do Lhasa Apsos have any health issues to watch out for?

Lhasa Apsos may be prone to health issues such as eye problems, hip dysplasia, and allergies. It’s important to ask breeders about health screening and any potential health issues in the puppy’s bloodline.

7. Can Lhasa Apsos be trained easily?

Lhasa Apsos can be stubborn and difficult to train, but consistent and positive training methods can be effective. They may benefit from early socialization and obedience training.