As you are continuing your search for a breeder and a puppy it is a good idea to keep track of breeders you have contacted. Where did you find the breeder? Did you find the breeder on the Internet, through a Bernese club, referred to breeder by a friend, through a club or independent rescue program?

When does each breeder you contact expect to have pups available? Do you need to contact the breeder at a later date? When?
Have you received information from the breeder electronically or via snail mail?

This might include:

• a copy of the pedigree
• pictures of the parents of the puppy
• a copy of the contract
• copies of genetic testing certifications
• a copy of AKC registrations for the parents
• other supportive materials you might need that cover puppy care and raising

Have you made arrangements to visit the breeder's home? Know anyone who you trust who has been to the breeder's home and can attest to conditions there?

Have you made plans to meet breeders at a club event?

Breeders have different objectives in owning and producing puppies. At this time it is possible to obtain a Berner from a wide array of breeders. Please don't hit the panic button. It is not necessarily wise to get a dog from the first breeder you find with a puppy available. Thoroughly familiarize yourself with the differences that exist in breeders' policies, their focus and reasons for owning and breeding Bernese. The manner in which breeders transact the business of breeding and selling pups will be important for you to consider. Be clear about breeder services offered before and after the sale.

Realistically assess whether you are well matched with this breed, and a particular breeder's way of doing business. Feel confident that a puppy or dog from the breeder's breeding program has the traits you are looking for before you jump into Berner ownership.

The responsibility for your satisfaction and your dog's happiness rests with you.

Trust that if you are patient, have a caring home to offer, the resources to care for a Berner, and honestly talk with breeders about your expectations, you are more likely to end up with a dog that will be apt to work well in your situation and a breeder on whom you can rely and trust to assist you should you need help managing your dog.

The Bernese Mountain Dog Clubs and their members are devoted to providing these dogs and the people who keep them with information and education. We hope your experiences with the dog you obtain reflect the devoted and functional nature of the Bernese Mountain Dog.