Expert: Kaza - 1/23/2008

Question
Hi Karen
I am going to view a bichon frise puppy this weekend with a view to making him part of our family.
I have relentlesly attempted to undertake research on the needs of a bichon prior to choosing this breed, however, i feel a little overwhelmed by the conflicting information. I have never owned a bichon before and i would like some advice on any charecteristics you feel i should look for in the pup, also what physical checks i should undertake whilst viewing the pup.
I would be most gratefull for any advice you could give me.
Ps. Are there any questions you would advise that i ask the breeder.
Sorry about the long list of requests,
Thanks Annette.

Answer
Hi Annette
Firstly well done, its not often I read questions from people who get the order of purchase correct.
You must establish before even looking if the dog is registered with the KC or Dog lovers. if kC it doesnt mean quality it simply means that we are able to verify its pedigree to some extent. We can also see from past research the lineage and if that is problematic.
Then we need to establish if BOTH parents have been eye tested by a proper opthalmic vet, if yes then they should both have CLEAR results, you need to view these  ask for a copy , scan it to me if unsure.
Then we need to establish if any health problems have occurred within the lines used for mating so ask the breeder.
Ask the breeder what aftercare they will supply , is it for life, it should be, to test this ring them up at weird hours say 10pm, 7am, 3pm judge their responses a GOOD breeder is always helpful and NEVER says
Ive been breeding these dogs for ***years , I know everything about them etc... Lets be very honest here poor lines come originally from poorly bred show lines this is factual, mismanaged gene pools destroy most breeds in the UK.
Look for the mouth is it overshot, undershot a good bite, (look on my site for actual pics so you know what you are looking for )www.eurobichons.com
Ask is it crate trained, is it partially toilet trained, when was it wormed, it should be at 2,5 7 weeks
Does the breeder have kids, is the pup socialised if so how (once again look at eurobichons the info is there)
All pups at that age should be bouncy, energetic, noisy, there should be no sign of fleas (black dots on skin that is flea poop)
No sign of diarhea look for smeared bums.
Mostly ask yourself does the breeder inspire you with confidence or do they just want your money....
Look for blackening nose, the eye rims should be solid black , the pads going black if not done so already.
Ears should not smell, they should be clean.
Good luck if stuck them go to my site I have realms of info that will stop you making any mistakes.It also stops breeders pulling the wool over your eyes and many do , even show breeders.