Reputable breeders aim to improve the overall health of the breed bY only breeding from healthy good examples of the breed. The Sire and Dam of the litter are tested before the mating takes place and are only used if the results are acceptable. Health testing is expensive however by performing testing and then selectively breeding, breeders can eliminate genetic conditions and minimiZe the likelihood of non-genetic conditions occurring. It is very important to note that "Vet checked" does NOT mean health tested.
Health testing does not guarantee quality nor that the puppy will not develop problems later in life. So many influences in the outside world can determine how your puppy will turn out. However you want to stack the cards in your favor and you can do this by buying from tested parents. The major advantage for health screening is that at least the breeder knows the stock they are breeding from, is fit for the purpose and that any puppies resulting from that mating will be as healthy as they can be. One of the most important decisions you will make is choosing the breeder of your dog.
Reputable breeders care about their breed, their dogs and those litters that they bring into the world. These breeders health test their dogs prior to breeding. A good breeder will also :
Be contactable for any problems or moral support and reassurance for the dogs entire life.
Take back a puppy or do all they can to aid in the responsible rehoming of a pup that cannot be kept by the original purchaser, again at ANY point in its life.
Stay at home with the pups from birth to pups going to new homes, and have someone with them 24 hours a days in the first days and weeks.
Begin the basics of socialiZation to household life, people, other animals and also the beginnings of training.