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How to find an Ethical Breeder

The best way to preserve the Manchester Terrier while not contributing to dog overpopulation issues is to make sure you are buying your new dog from an ethical breeder. Ethical breeders are dedicated to the health, temperament, and overall well-being of their dogs and the breed, and their highest priority is that puppies are placed in responsible, loving homes. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision.

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  1. Get to Know the Breeder

    • Ask the breeder about the parents, why they chose the pairing, and what they hope to accomplish in this next generation of Manchesters. All ethical breeders should have clear goals to improve their dogs with each generation.

    • Ask the breeder about their whelping environment and request photos or videos to see how the puppies are raised.

    • If visiting in person is not feasible, make sure the breeder is willing to share photos and videos of at least one parent. Alternatively, meeting at a local dog show where you can see some of their dogs is a great option.

    • Look for a clean, safe, and well-maintained space. Puppies should appear healthy, clean, and well-socialized.

    • Meet one or both of the puppy’s parents. This helps you assess their temperament and observe how they interact with people and other dogs.

    • Ask the breeder about how they raise their puppies, including whether they use protocols such as Puppy Culture or other socialization methods. Additionally, inquire about the vetting and health checks each puppy will receive before going to their new home.

    • Ask for references from past puppy homes to hear about their experiences and how the puppies have developed.

  2. Health Testing and Certification

    • Ethical breeders conduct health screenings to minimize genetic issues. For Manchester Terriers, look for testing for von Willebrand’s Disease, autoimmune thyroiditis, eye examination by a boarded ACVO ophthalmologist, Legg-Calve-Perthes, cardiac evaluation, juvenile dilated cardiomyopathy, and Xanthinuria type 2A.

    • Check for health certifications from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) or the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC).

    • Ask the breeder about known health issues in their breeding lines and how they address them.

  3. Be Honest About What You're Looking For in Your Dog

    • Manchesters can have a range of energy levels and temperaments within a single litter. Be upfront about the type of home you will provide so that your breeder can match the best puppy to your home.

    • If you are interested in conformation (dog shows) or performance events (e.g., Agility, Rally, Obedience), let the breeder know and be transparent about your experience level.

    • If you are looking for a companion rather than a performance or show dog, communicate that clearly as well.

    • Clearly state any specific preferences, like the dog's sex or size, and understand that you may need to wait longer for the right match.

  4. Observe Breeder-Owner Interaction

    • The breeder-owner relationship lasts for the life of the dog, so make sure you feel comfortable having open conversations.

    • A responsible breeder will ask you numerous questions to ensure you are a suitable owner.

    • Expect to sign a contract outlining care expectations and breeding restrictions.

    • Be prepared for the breeder to offer continued support throughout the dog’s life.

Green Flags
 

  • Puppies and adults are well-socialized and live in a home environment.

  • Breeder provides clear, thorough documentation on health testing and lineage.

  • They are transparent about the breed's challenges and characteristics as well as the challenges and characteristics of their specific pedigree.

  • The breeder intends to be a resource throughout the dog’s life and will take the dog back if you can no longer keep it.

  • You feel as though the breeder has been able to answer all your questions in a reasonable capacity.

  • The breeder is unwilling to answer questions about the breeding environment or the litter's parents.

  • Breeders should match puppies to owners based on needs, not just on choosing the cutest puppy.

  • No health testing or certifications are available. Learn about the health tests AMTC recommends.

  • Puppies are kept in poor, unsanitary conditions, or the breeder cannot explain their puppy-raising protocols.

  • Breeder discourages questions or becomes defensive.

Possible Concerns
 

  • While ethical breeding is not profit-driven, expect to pay more for a Manchester Terrier from a responsible breeder due to the breed’s limited availability and thorough health practices.

  • Manchesters are a rare breed, so you might not live in a close proximity to the right breeder for you. Don't be afraid to connect with breeders far from you, there are many ways to get your puppy to it's perfect home.

  • Be prepared for the lifelong commitment, including food, vet care, training, grooming, and unexpected expenses.

Final Considerations
 

Finding the right breeder may take time, but the effort is worth it when you welcome a healthy and happy Manchester Terrier into your life.

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