Where can you find reputable breeders if you want to buy a purebred animal?

The pedigree animal market in Calgary is a place where the desire to get a pet is combined with the risks of unethical trade, fraud, and poor breeding. To become the owner of a healthy, pedigree animal, you should carefully consider your choice of breeder, avoid pitfalls, and act responsibly.

Introduction: Not just a purchase — a responsible agreement

Buying a purebred pet is not just about emotions, but also a big responsibility. Beyond the excitement, you will have to search for an ethical, reputable breeder who can guarantee the health and well-being of the animal. In recent years, Calgary has seen a rise in demand for purebred dogs, cats, and rabbits, but there has also been an increase in fraud and “backyard” breeders.

Why is it important to look for reputable breeders?

• Guaranteed health and origin — only a reputable breeder can provide documents confirming the pedigree, genetic test results, veterinary examinations, and a health guarantee.

• Prevention of animal exploitation — buying from unknown sellers or pet shops that purchase from “mili” can cause suffering to animals and harm the buyer's health.

• Social responsibility — supporting ethical breeders helps combat abuse, fraud, and uncontrolled breeding.

Official organizations and registries: your compass in the world of breeders

Dog breeders

A reliable place to start your search is the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC). The CKC maintains an official database of breeders called the Puppy List, where members must adhere to breeding standards, ethics, and health testing requirements.

• CKC Puppy List: Official registry of breeders.
• Alberta Kennel Club: regularly holds shows where you can meet breeders in person.
• Calgary Kennel & Obedience Club: organizes shows in Calgary to meet the best breeders in the region.

Cat breeders

For cats, there is the Canadian Cat Association (CCA-AFC) and Chats Canada Cats (CCC). The CCA's official registry allows you to check a breeder's registration, status, and documents.

• CCA-AFC: Official website of the registry.
• Request a registration certificate for each cat. Only registered cats are considered purebred.

Rabbit breeders

Among rabbits, there are associations such as the Southern Alberta Rabbit Breeders Association (SARBA) and the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA), the Sir Lopcelot's registry, and others.

• SARBA: brings together breeders across the region and organizes shows.
• ARBA: regulates breeding standards and organizes shows.

How to distinguish a reputable breeder: key signs and questions to ask

Signs of an ethical professional breeder

• Registration with a professional association (CKC, CCA-AFC, SARBA, ARBA, etc.).

• Documents and certificates for the animal — genetic tests, veterinary certificates.

• Transparent purchase conditions — a written contract and health guarantee.

• The opportunity to visit the kennel in person.

• Openness to questions.

• No sale of animals in pet stores.

What to ask the breeder

• What health tests have the parents undergone?

• Are there any documents proving the animal's origin?

• Is the animal registered with professional clubs?

• How are the babies kept?

• What are the return policy and health guarantees?

• Can I see the conditions and the parents?

• Is there a sales contract and what are its terms?

• How many years of experience?

• How often are new generations born?

Popular verified breeders in Calgary

Before purchasing, check the current status of each breeder through the official registry website.

Where to find a breeder: recommendations

• Official catalogs (CKC, CCA-AFC, SARBA, ARBA).
• Dog or cat shows.
• Recommendations from veterinarians.
• Breed clubs and forums.

How to avoid scams and “milers”: important tips

• Do not buy animals through online ads (Kijiji, Facebook Marketplace).

• Do not take animals from pet stores.

• Read the sales contract carefully.

• Get recommendations.

• Visit the breeder in person.

• Pay only after inspecting the animal.

• Ask about genetic testing.

• Check the breeder's legal status.

Calgary's involvement in the fight against unethical breeders

Calgary is actively fighting against “miles”; in the past, the city has successfully closed several such establishments in collaboration with animal welfare organizations.

• The sale of dogs and cats in pet stores is prohibited (except for animals from shelters).

• Educational work is underway and tighter regulations are planned.

Should you contact shelters and rescue organizations?

If the breed characteristics are not critical, consider shelters (Calgary Humane Society, AARCS, Cochrane Humane Society). They often even have purebred animals.

• You avoid supporting uncontrolled breeding.
• You support humane care.
• Be prepared for differences in character and health.

Conclusion: act consistently and critically

Choosing a reputable breeder requires research, documentation, communication, and personal visits.

Always use official catalogs, consult with veterinarians, and don't trust “sweet offers.” Don't rush — a responsible choice today will protect you tomorrow and give you a true friend for years to come.