Responsible dog breeders use simple genetic cheek swabs to look for hidden conditions that may have found their way into a breed.  If the dog is a carrier, then they will be bred with a clear dog.  This preserves the breed while ensuring that puppies are free of known genetic problems.  Irresponsible breeders want to make a buck, breed the females over and over and skip the genetic screenings which can lead to very sick puppies which are then sold to the public, puppy farms, and pet stores.

Puppy mills can be virtual sweatshops for the mothers.  At a reputable breeder, a mom might have three litters total, starting after the age of 2.  At puppy mills, the female is expected to pump out two litters a year every year she’s fertile which wears her out.

I follow several dogs on Instagram via my account @twoadorablelabs who have been breed irresponsibly but fortunately have been given a second chance and are now living the good life with amazing owners.  Why are these people so amazing?  Because these dogs are disfigured due to overbreeding and bad genes and were discarded and left to die. They were found and saved by caring people who brought them back from the brink of death.  They are now living in caring, loving homes, and despite their traumatic start in life, they are thriving.

I have found a website discussing the difference between irresponsible and responsible breeding.  For more information, check it out here:  https://rampages.us/synthesismatrix/what-is-responsible-vs-irresponsible-dog-breeding/

Some tips on picking a healthy and reputable breeder:

Avoid breeders who promise a same-day puppy.  Responsible breeding takes time.  If a breeder is bragging that they always have puppies readily available, then you know you are dealing with a puppy factory.  You can also bet that these breeders are not properly screening the parents.

Check out how the puppies react to human touch.  Make sure they are socialized.

See if the puppy’s parents have a purpose other than procreating.  Puppies that have been kept out back and not in the house with all the household noises will not be prepared for a busy household.  Make sure the puppy parents are well adjusted and are involved in other activities with the family as well.

Make sure the parents have their medical clearances, blood screening, X-rays, etc.

Don’t adopt based on looks alone.  Research the breed you want and make the choice based on your lifestyle.

Be careful of the mixed breeds such as a puggle or labradoodle.  You might find a breeder in the mix who does not know what they are doing.  Because these dogs are cute and in high demand, this is a magnet for iffy breeders.

More reasons to walk away from a breeder:

If a breeder is unwilling to answer your questions
Will not allow you to meet the parents
Cannot provide proper paperwork or veterinary records
The breeder advertises rare colors or special markings
The dogs and puppies look to be in poor health…walk away!  Do not buy from this breeder!