1.  Do not buy from pet stores. Pet shop stock generally comes from puppy mills where dogs are raised under deplorable, unhealthy conditions. You will never be able to discuss your puppy with its breeder, or be truly assured of its parentage. Buy ONLY from a reputable breeder.

2.  Do not buy a puppy less than seven weeks of age. According to experts in canine behavior, puppies need to remain with their dam until then for proper personality development.

3.  Do not buy a puppy from a litter that has not had puppy shots, worming, and tails docked/ears cropped (unless you specifically request no cropping). Failure to do these things is the hallmark of an ignorant breeder, or one who is more interested saving money than ensuring the health of the puppies.

Not having correct puppy vaccinations may take your puppy's life. Learn what diseases are common in your area. Continue with a vaccination schedule as recommended by your breeder and veterinarian.

Tail docking should be done at three days of age. Doing it later is extremely painful to the puppy.

Ears are normally cropped about 6-7 weeks of age. While "natural" ears are allowed on request by some reputable breeders, most take care of this task to be sure it's done correctly then healed properly. Ear cropping usually reduces the incidence of chronic ear infections later, plus the Bouv presents a more watchful appearance and can hear better directionally.

4.  Unless you are knowingly acquiring a rescued Bouv (there are many wonderful family companions among them!), do not buy a puppy from a litter with unregistered parents. You cannot be assured of its heritage.

5.  Do not purchase a pet quality Bouvier if you are planning to breed Bouviers. Only Bouviers maturing close to the standard in almost every way should be used to perpetuate the breed. Be honest with the breeder - and with yourself.

6.  Do not purchase a show prospect unless you plan to do so. Breeders put a lot of effort into selecting special puppies that warrant having them shown. Be honest with the breeder.

7.  Do not buy a Bouvier from anyone whose AKC privileges have been suspended or revoked. These puppies may not be able to be registered.

8.  Do not buy a Bouvier from a crowded, dirty kennel. Home-raised puppies in a clean environment make the most socialized, easy-to-housetrain, adaptable Bouviers.

9.  Do not buy a Bouvier from breeders who advertise deliberate non-compliance with the standard on such things as size, color, or type. For example: ‘We breed them bigger’, or ‘Specializing in (a specific color)’, or ‘Short, care-free coats’.

10. Do not buy a Bouvier from anyone whose sole purpose is to produce guard dogs. These dogs may not have the stable temperament you seek.

11.  Do plan to spay/neuter you pet Bouvier for his/her continued good health and to reduce incidence of certain life-threatening cancers. (Prostrate, mammary, etc.)

12.  Do examine the breeders’ Bill of Sale and get a Written Guarantee against genetic defects for the life of your dog. A breeder who only guarantees for a short time may be taking advantage of you and the fact that many genetic problems do not surface until after the dog is a few years old.

13.  Do plan on at least one set of Obedience Classes WITH your dog, perhaps two sets. Your puppy will grow to be an 80-110 pound dog and you will not be able to scoop him up in your arms or drag him to where you want to go. You must have him under verbal control and the best way to learn how to do this is to participate in a GOOD series of training classes. If anything happens in the class which makes you uncomfortable, leave. If treatment of the dogs is harsh, inconsistent, or inappropriate, get out of there and ask for a refund. Bouviers learn best with positive reinforcement. A good instructor/class will help you with individual problems as well as teach you to teach your dog good manners.