Expert: Jannie Balliett - 4/21/2009

Question
I am looking at buying a boxer puppy around August. I have been in contact with a few breeders. One of them sent me some pics. of their female. Now I don't know if this is a problem or not, but the dog's nipples were dragging on the ground in the pic. Is that normal? Is that a possible sign of a puppy mill breeder? Another breeder I found, their female is totally different. She's had past litters but she looks spectacular. I'm going to buy from the one whose boxer is in better condition, but I just wanted to know for future reference if that is something I should report or what. Thanks.

Answer
If the bitch has nipples dragging the ground, the owner (I will not call them breeder!) has breed her too many times and she's has too many litters! Run-- run as far as you can! They are money hungry and have no regard to the bitch and puppies.

Go see a litter of puppies in person, see the mother and father. Get their vet's name, address, and phone number. Call their vet and ask health questions. Thyroid condition? ETC...

Look at each puppy for health issues and signs. Look at the parents to see how the puppies will be when older.

Call the vets.

Check their living conditions, and breeding conditions, and if you have a gut feeling or disapprove, then don't buy.

But do look at the total picture to decide.

Join Boxerworld.com for free and go into their forums and read all about Boxers and Boxer puppies.