The pursuit of a Bernese puppy can often involve more research and more waiting time than many people expect as they begin looking. More people realize the need to educate themselves about a breed and plan well ahead but there are still many who may not yet be well informed about the realities of getting a puppy from a responsible, committed breeder.

We strongly believe that anyone interested in the Bernese Mountain Dog must take the time and effort to research the breed (and breeders). This will lead to a much better-informed decision, a greater chance for a healthy, happy pup and a better experience for prospective owners.

The Internet is a great source of information and we highly recommend using our Berner links page to continue researching. Three web sites that are very good for puppy inquirers:
- The Internet BMD Consortium*
- The BMD Club of America - Puppy Connection*
- BMD Club of Canada puppy FAQ*

It is extremely sad that as our breed continues to increase in popularity, more and more uncaring, poor quality 'breeders' keep coming out of the woodwork looking to make a buck. Pet stores and 'backyard breeders' who are more interested in your money than in the long-term welfare of their puppies or the history, quality and health of their breeding dogs are absolutely not recommended.

Sadly, this is getting worse here in Ontario. We feel that dogs should never be sold in stores or by equally uncommitted individuals and it is a tragedy that the increasing popularity of our breed has lead to their exploitation by such unscrupulous people. Unfortunately, many good people don't know what makes a breeder good or bad and so they often unknowingly support bad breeders.

The number of Bernese Mtn Dogs needing rescue or rehoming by the BMD Club of Ontario has risen steadily over the years and this seems only to be getting worse. It is a direct result of the increase in unethical, uncaring breeders.

Some warning signs of a poor quality backyard breeder are:
- ready availability of puppies
- several litters 'on the way'
- 'dances' around the issue of properly registering their dogs
- uses selling websites such as puppyfind.com or kijiji.ca
- takes non-refundable deposits
- engages in breed mixing (with unfounded health claims)
- websites with glowing claims about their 'amazing' dogs
- NOT members of official breed clubs. such as the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Ontario
  (offers excuses about why they are NOT members)
- has a large number of breeding dogs
- many litters in a year
- seems to be making a living by breeding dogs
- more interested in making a sale than determining suitability of homes
- downplays or minimizes health concerns in their lines

Click here* or here* to view various opinions on what makes a responsible breeder.

Please do not support the exploitation of our breed (or any breed) or allow yourself to be victimized by pet stores, puppy mills and backyard breeders. We know of a number of people who made the mistake of getting puppies from these exploiters because they did not want to wait for a responsible breeder. Over the years we have seen the continually mounting evidence that it really is a bad idea, especially in a breed with serious health issues. When someone's main motivation to breed is to make money... then you should stay away from them.

We strongly urge anyone interested in getting a Bernese puppy to  N E V E R  deal with anyone who is not a member of the Bernese Mtn Dog Club of Ontario or the Bernese Mtn Dog Club of Canada. (or one of the official US Berner clubs)
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It is not always realistic to expect to be able to get a puppy quickly. The fact is, truly caring and committed breeders do not have many breeding dogs and do not have many litters. They are not in 'business' to produce lots of puppies for the 'market'. Unfortunately, this reality can sometimes lead to frustration since so many people are initially unaware of the time and effort sometimes required. Responsible breeders put a great deal of effort into their dogs and also into the search for the best possible homes for their puppies. It is much more than worth any extra effort, driving distance and waiting time to get the right puppy from the right breeder - someone who clearly demonstrates detailed knowledge of many issues related to our breed and who you know will be there for you with support and advice for the entire life of their puppies.

We encourage people to consider planning well ahead:

purchase some one of the recommended books    - they are very informative

make an effort to learn the differences between good and bad breeders - this page* contains good info

search for breed information on the Internet

look for information on health issues   (cancer, hips/elbows and more)

make an honest effort to determine if the breed is right for you AND if you are right for the breed

try to see the dogs at shows, club functions, etc.

find the affiliated breed clubs (CKC, AKC)   ie. BMDCC or BMDCA

look for club breed and puppy referral info

look for a list of breeder members

contact more than one breeder in an attempt to get a more complete picture, differing views, methods, etc.

try to visit a few breeders to see and learn about their dogs and discuss things in person