Responsible Breeding

What is "responsible breeding"?  Why shouldn't I buy a dog from a petshop/puppymill/backyard breeder??

Please see the following links from the Boston Terrier Club of America:

http://www.bostonterrierclubofamerica.org/CodeofEthics.pdf
http://www.bostonterrierclubofamerica.org/ReputableBreeder.html

As a member of the BTCA, I adhere to the standards set forth in the BTCA code of ethics.  In addition:

• I breed only a few litters a year
• Health testing is a priority.  Most dogs in my breeding program have health testing for the common genetic issues, such as CERF eye tests, OFA patella tests and BAER hearing tests.  Many have CHIC health certificates. See each dog's page on my website for specific health testing information.
• Litters are raised in the house, usually in my bedroom for the first 4 weeks
• Puppies are health checked by my vet before being placed in new homes
• Puppies are CERF tested prior to going to new homes
• Puppies are raised in a warm, nurturing environment where socialization is a priority
• Although no one can gauarantee a dog will not have a genetic health problem, all puppy sales include a contract with a warantee for genetic life threatening health defects.
• Puppies are usually placed no earlier than  8-12 weeks of age, and  have had at least one vaccination shot for Parvo/Distemper. All puppies placed go to their new homes with a detailed health history.