Responsible breeders are very hard to find. Here is a list of things you can look for in a responsible breeder:

The breeder should be able to trace the heritage of their breeding stock for at least three generations. To do this they would need to use a reputable wolf dog registry.

Breeders should have a breeding program that they stick to. Most responsible breeders will breed two animals for looks and temperament, not just because two animals are on the property.

The breeder should have homes lined up and deposits taken BEFORE any breeding takes place. This also means they have checked YOU out to be sure you will provide a sound environment for the pup AND adequate containment. Home checks should also be done AFTER the purchase of a pup.

A responsible breeder will only sell pups to people in LEGAL states. Here is a site on regulations state to state so read it carefully. State Regulations .

Responsible breeders will provide you with support for the life of the pup in matters of behavior and care. They won't just take your money and say 'see ya'.

A responsible breeder will also provide a contract for the animal you purchase and usually there will be a spay and neuter clause with such a contract. Most breeders who are responsible will require you return the animal to them if you are no longer able to keep it. A lot of breeders say they will take an animal back but many don't. It is your job to make sure they do! Ask for references! (I only know of one breeder of Malamutes who requires that he co-owns the animal you purchase. This means at any time if he sees you are unfit then he can legally take back that animal. I think more breeders should operate this way.)
A good breeder will not breed a female every time she comes into season!

A good breeder NEVER has an accidental litter! Most often the only accidental litters happen when animals are not properly supervised or contained. This can happen once but when a breeder has several accidental litters repeatedly this IS a problem and they are most likely running a puppy mill.

Does the breeder do any health screens like checking for displaysia? If not, why not? These animals are very prone to this as well.

Go and look at the potential breeders facilities. Are the kennels clean, water bowls clean, animals look in good condition? Schedule an appointment with them to look at their facilities but I also recommend a surprise visit. When making the surprise visit does everything look the same or are the animals in filth?

Does the breeder educate their customers, giving extensive educational material before and after the sale?

By doing these things you can help put the irresponsible breeders out of business and in the long run it is for your benefit.

With the exception to state regulations and registries, persons shopping for any puppy should follow these guidelines.

There are thousands of animals killed each day in shelters across this country because there are not enough homes for them. Before checking out a breeder check at your local shelter. The shelters in most cases require you to sign a contract and have adequate fencing around your yard. They also require that you own your home or land lords permission. A shelter animal is temperament tested,utd on shots, spayed/neutered and most times come with a free vet visit.

If you are not part of the solution then you are part of the problem!

If you are thinking of breeding please read this. This outlines the cost of having one litter. Then I would urge you to read the story of Bliss a show boxer. Not related to wolf dogs but the same things can happen with all canids.

This page was based on The Wolf is at the Door's criteria for a responsible breeder.