A Hobbyist breeder is:
Hobby Breeder- very responsible or they don't rate the designation. Their dogs are their pets FIRST & FOREMOST, and often times show dogs. Often their "kennels" include the couch or bed. The hobbyist feels the only reason to breed is to strive to produce the ideal dog of their breed. They breed "the best to the best" no matter how much time spent, research, money and efforts it costs. They are creating a work of art and have thoroughly educated themselves. Having champions in the pedigree proves nothing toward breeding quality of an individual. Therefore they breed a dog only after they prove themselves in their field, be that a show Champion, a hard pulling sled dog, or a good sheepdog or retriever. They do the available screening for known health problems in their breed. They spay or neuter any dogs that produce health problems, no matter how beautiful, or how much they have won. They breed to the written standard of excellence for their breed, not to a showering fad. They Do NOT breed "DESIGNER BREEDS" AKA HYBRIDS, AKA MUTTS. These breeders are committed to every dog they produce for life. Expect pet quality to be sold on spay/neuter contracts only to protect the breed and written guarantees to protect you. Many only sell their puppies by referral, although some do advertise in the paper or magazines. They would not trust their mother to screen a prospective home, let alone a retail pet shop. When you have located a hobby breeder expect to be grilled about your home and life and maybe to wait a awhile for a puppy. You may even run into resistance when you ask about buying their dogs. Best to ask price last, it may well depend on how good of home they think your family will be! The hobbyist is surprised if they break even on a litter because they invest so much "doing it right". When you do acquire a puppy from a true hobby breeder you will be joining a new family, Dog-in-laws.
Below are some vintage photos of my Grandparent's & Their Canine Pals.

My Grandfather, Joesph Sprauge & His Boxer-1950 ( 3rd from the right )

My Grandmother, Lorraine Sprauge & One of her beloved Miniature Pinschers - 1948



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