Need help finding an ethical Pomeranian breeder! Located in the Midwest; but willing to travel anywhere in the USA.
So I’ve been struggling a TON with finding a fully ethical Pom breeder. Idk if it’s something about the breed; or if it’s my own subpar researching skills; but I can’t seem to find one that meets all (or even most!) of the “ethical” standards.
Here are my big things:
1.) ALL their breeding dogs must have ALL the recommended health tests done; with results posted to the OFA. Their results must be passing.
2.) All (or at least most); of their breeding dogs must shown; and ideally be titled.
3.) No marketing of “rare” colors (merle in particular); no marketing of teacups, no marketing of designer crosses. Along these same lines; charging more based on color or gender is a red flag for me.
4.) Doesn’t constantly have puppies available; doesn’t offer more than one breed (Pom).
5.) Retired dogs and surrendered puppies are never relegated to shelters; but are taken in by the breeder.
6.) A contract with a health guarantee, a clause that says the breeder will take the puppy back anytime, and a spay/ neuter clause. (If they sell breeding rights at higher costs just to anyone who asks that’d be a huge red flag for me).
Here are some more minor things:
1.) No peddling of MLM food or supplements
2.) Meeting the dogs and touring the facilities is always a plus.
3.) No overbreeding- just a few litters a year; with a wait list for each litter.
4.) Temperament testing; with the breeder selecting the puppy for the buyer; to ensure the best fit. Allowing the buyer to make the selection based solely on color is a red flag for me.
5.) Being selective about who they’ll sell to is always a plus.
6.) Parents aren’t bred until they’re a few years old, are only bred once or so a year, and are retired at a reasonable age.
7.) All dogs live in the home; rather than in outdoor kennels.
It’s generally agreed upon that these are the requirements for a breeder to be considered “ethical”. Yet I can’t find one single Pom breeder who meets even all of my big things; let alone all of my little things. But I won’t buy a Pom puppy from a backyard breeder; I’m a firm believer in “adopt or shop ethically”. Am I just unable to shop ethically for a Pom? Should I just stick to adopting them instead? Any advice, insight, or recommendations is appreciated.