The top three popular breeds in Massachusetts are Golden Retrievers, Labradors, and German Shepherds. Other popular dogs in Massachusetts include Beagles, Bichon Friches, Boston Terriers, Boxers, Chihuahuas, Cocker Spaniels, Dachshunds, Jack Russell Terriers, Maltese, Pitbulls, Poodles, Pugs, Shih Tzus, Schnauzers, and Yorkshire Terriers. Whatever the breed, it’s important to bring home a healthy puppy to enjoy years of companionship with your four-legged friend. Here are some tips on buying a healthy dog in Massachusetts:
If you are buying a puppy from a pet shop, look for the license. All pet shops in Massachusetts are required to display their license in a location where it’s clearly visible to customers. They are also required to display a sign that lists all the dogs available for sale.
The pet shop is required by law to provide you with a copy of the dog’s complete medical record and a 14-day warranty. You, as the customer, will be required to sign an acknowledgement of receipt of these documents.
The dog must be examined by a vet no more than 7 days before the sale. Pet shops are not allowed to knowingly sell a sick dog. You should have the dog independently examined by a vet within 14 days of purchase. If the vet certifies that the dog has a congenital disorder, you can return the dog to the pet shop and get a full refund. Keep in mind that pet shops are not required by Massachusetts law to pay for vet examinations after the sale.
You can find listings of reputable breeders in Massachusetts on Puppy Hero. If you are not sure which breed to bring home, contact the local breed club in your area for the breed you are considering. They can give you further information about what to expect with a particular breed and whether it is right for your lifestyle.
Most breeders in Massachusetts and nationwide specialize in one or two breeds. So, another way to tell that a breeder may in fact be a pet shop is the presence of many breeds present in the breeder’s facility.
If you are buying from a breeder, ask to meet the puppy’s mother and watch the interaction between her and the puppy as well as signs that she is lactating.
