Ethical Breeding

Are both parents DNA tested and cleared for Hereditary Footpad Hyperkeratosis (Irish Terrier Type)?

HFH is a painful genetic condition specific to Irish Terriers causing cracked, thickened paw pads. A responsible breeder will have documented DNA test results — Negative/Clear — for both sire and dam.

Are both parents tested and cleared for Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis 8 (NCL8)?

NCL8 is a progressive neurological condition. Both parents should be tested and documented as clear before any mating.

Can you provide copies of the DNA health certificates for both parents?

A genuine breeder will provide these without hesitation. If they can't — or won't — walk away.

Have the parents had a full veterinary health check prior to breeding?

Beyond DNA tests, a general vet clearance prior to mating is a mark of a responsible breeding programme.

Are you a registered member of your state canine body (e.g. Dogs NSW, Dogs Vic)?

Registered breeders must adhere to a code of ethics and responsible breeding practices. Always ask for their membership number and verify it.

Will the puppy come with full registration papers (Main or Limited Register)?

Main Register allows the dog to be shown and bred. Limited Register is for companion pets. Either is legitimate — but papers should always be provided. Unregistered puppies cannot be verified.

Are you a member of a breed club or specialty club?

Breed club membership shows a deeper commitment to the breed's welfare, standards, and community.

Can I see the registration paperwork and pedigree for both parents?

A multi-generation pedigree allows you to research the lineage, identify potential genetic issues, and verify the breeder's claims.

How often does the dam have litters, and how old is she?

A responsible breeder limits litters per dam and does not breed a bitch under 18 months or over 7–8 years. Overbreeding is a red flag.

How do you select your breeding pairs?

The answer should reflect careful consideration of health, temperament, conformation, and genetic diversity — not just availability or convenience.

Do you breed any other breeds, and how many litters do you produce per year?

High-volume breeders producing multiple breeds and many litters annually are often prioritising profit over welfare. Quality breeders tend to breed selectively and infrequently.

Have any puppies or dogs from your programme been returned to you, and why?

Ethical breeders always take their dogs back. A breeder who can honestly discuss returns is more trustworthy than one who claims it's never happened.

Where are the puppies raised — inside the home or in outside kennels?

Puppies raised inside family homes are better socialised and more confident. Early human contact is critical for temperament development.

What early socialisation and enrichment do puppies receive?

Exposure to sounds, people, children, surfaces, car trips and other experiences during the critical 3–12 week window shapes the dog's confidence for life.

At what age do puppies leave for their new homes?

Puppies should not leave before 8 weeks of age. Many experienced breeders keep puppies until 10–12 weeks, particularly with terrier breeds.

What vaccinations, vet checks, and health treatments have puppies received before leaving?

At minimum, puppies should have their first vaccination, a vet health check, and be fully wormed. Ask for documentation.

Can I meet both parents, or at least the dam, in person?

The temperament of the parents strongly predicts that of the puppies. A nervous, aggressive, or overly shy parent is a major warning sign.

How would you describe the typical temperament of your line?

Irish Terriers should be bold, spirited, loyal and trainable — but individual lines vary. An honest breeder will tell you both the strengths and challenges of their dogs.

Is this breed suitable for my lifestyle / household?

An ethical breeder will honestly assess whether an Irish Terrier suits you — and may decline to sell to you if it's not a good match. This is a green flag, not a red one.

Do any of your dogs have titles in sports, obedience, or performance events?

Titles in any discipline demonstrate that the breeder is actively working with their dogs and testing their trainability and temperament beyond the show ring.

Will you be available for support and advice after I take my puppy home?

A genuine breeder remains a lifelong resource. They should be contactable for questions about health, behaviour, grooming and more throughout the dog's life.

What happens if I can no longer keep the dog at any point in its life?

Ethical breeders will always take a dog back rather than see it surrendered to a shelter. This should be in writing in a puppy contract.

Is there a written puppy contract, and what does it include?

A contract protects both parties and should cover health guarantees, return policy, desexing conditions (if on limited register), and breeder obligations.

Are you affiliated with any other breeder of this breed?

Some breeders use inflated networks to appear more established. Ask specifically whether this matters for your puppy's origins and who is responsible for the breeding programme.