Shetland sheepdog

Tips and advice when contacting a breeder

While we make every effort to ensure that the breeders listed on Perfect Pets are registered, responsible, and maintain high ethical standards, please take 5 minutes to read the advice below and also see our detailed information on finding a reputable breeder.    

Our recommendation is that you purchase pets locally and in person.  For many reasons, it is always preferable that you meet and get to know the breeder and vice versa. While many reputable breeders send animals interstate safely and without issue, we do not encourage this. 

When you contact a breeder, keep in mind that responsible breeders will want some information about things like -  the type of home you will offer, how much time you have for your new pet, if you have experience with the breed and if not, if you've researched the breed.  Responsible breeders don't want to receive emails and messages that simply ask 'how much for a puppy?', or 'when are kittens available' so tell them a bit about yourself.  

Remember - when you take on a new pet, you are making a decision that’s going to significantly affect your life for the next 10-15 years.  Please make sure the breed you are interested in suits your family and lifestyle, and that you can give it the type of home it needs to be happy.  Above all - use common sense and don't be impulsive.

Please ask the breeder these important questions:

1. Can you meet the mother and father, and how old are they? 

If you have any concerns about a breeder, the welfare of their animals, or if they fail to:

- provide clean and appropriate living conditions for their animals 

- meet their promise according to their Perfect Pets Q&A Checklist 

- provide documentation supporting health, micro-chipping, vaccinations, pedigree etc 

Please contact us, as well as their veterinary practice (if possible), and the appropriate authorities in your area (eg. RSPCA, ANKC, Local Council etc).  

All dog breeders listed on Perfect Pets are *verified ANKC registered breeders.  Cat breeders have also been *verified, and are appropriately registered according to their local state/territory guidelines.   

*Breeders are verified when joining Perfect Pets, and annually thereafter.  

ANKC member bodies can be contacted directly by phone or email:  

Dogs VIC -  Phone: (03)9788 2500, email: office@dogsvictoria.org.au 

Dogs NSW - Phone: (02) 9834 3022, email: info@dogsnsw.org.au 

Dogs QLD - Phone: (07) 3252 2661, email: info@dogsqueensland.org.au

Dogs SA - Phone: (08) 8349 4797, email: info@dogssa.com.au 

Dogs WEST - Phone: (08) 9455 1188, email: k9@dogswest.com

Dogs NT - Phone: (08) 8984 3570, email: naca1@bigpond.com 

Dogs ACT - Phone: (02) 6241 4404, email: admin@dogsact.org.au 

Dogs TAS - Phone: (03) 6272 9443, email: admin@tasdogs.com  

All dog breeders have agreed to abide by ANKC Regulations, including the Code of Ethics.

Please note that because Perfect Pets cannot be directly involved in interactions we cannot accept responsibility for any agreement entered into by a breeder and a pet buyer.  Please follow the advice provided. Perfect Pets has no powers of enforcement and cannot guarantee the reputation of any breeder, or the soundness or suitability of the pet you choose. You must satisfy yourself that any pet you decide on is fit and healthy, and will fit with your family and lifestyle.