One advantage of buying a purebred Min Pin is that you can see what the mature animal is like. Within certain limits, the size and temperament is predictable and therefore you can select accordingly - one that suits your purpose and your lifestyle.

Different breeds have different requirements for feeding, exercise, grooming and affection. The Miniature Pinscher, being a 'toy breed' and like any other dog - demands the same attention.

To be classed as a Purebred, your dog must be eligible for registration with the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC). Your best source of a sound, healthy Miniature Pinscher is the Breeder, preferably one who is also a CKC member and also a member of the local club or clubs, during the time they are breeding.

Deal with a RECOMMENDED breeder who is concerned about the present and future development of his/her canine companions. Be prepared to answer a lot of questions from the breeder, but also have a few ready yourself.

Seeing as many relatives of your puppy as are available to be seen will give you a clearer picture of the development of your own pup. Ask to view the mother and father of the pup but know that sometimes the mother is shipped away for the breeding process and there may only be a photo of the dad to see. If the Breeder does not wish to show the mother due to her 'bedraggled' shape after the birth of her pups, request a return visit and/or a look at a photo of her before the delivery.

All the Breeders must individually identify each puppy before it leaves the kennel by means of a tattoo number or a microchip implant. Unless this is done BEFORE THE PUP LEAVES THE BREEDER'S HOME, the dog cannot be registered with the CKC.

If the dog was born in Canada, ask to see the litter certificate issued by the CKC. The certificate will indicate the litter registration number, breed, date of birth of the pups, registered names and CKC numbers of the sire and dam, number of males and female pups born in that litter, and the name and address of the person who owns the litter at birth. . You should take note of the litter registration number and the name and address of the 'owner at birth' as it is this person who is responsible for identifying the dog before you purchase it and individually registering the dog with the CKC.

The good breeders would never hand over the individual registration papers and tell you to send it in to CKC, nor should they 'charge more' for registration papers when selling a puppy.

Whether or not it is purebred your pet should be healthy, clean, bright-eyed and show definite friendliness. The cleanliness of the breeder's kennel area or facilities are generally a good indication of the puppy's health prospects.

The breeder should inform the buyer of health problems within the breed and should guarantee the dog's current health. Your puppy should have paid a recent visit to a veterinarian. It should have its inoculations up to date, have been wormed if necessary, and any other requirements met (such as tail docking, dew claws removed, etc.)

A reputable breeder will welcome your independent veterinarian examination within 48 hours and if any health related problems are brought to his/her attention, will refund your money or make adjustments as required. Example: if your new pup develops canine distemper within 7 days of purchase chances are he had it when you got him! Note: even vaccinated pups can come down with distemper, maybe not as bad as an unvaccinated puppy, but still have symptoms. You may also be asked to sign a CKC Non-Breeding Contract (to ensure the spaying or neutering of your puppy) before he/she leaves the breeder's home.

Beware of the breeders who allow a puppy to leave the kennel too early - 47 days is about the earliest date with 49 (or 7 weeks old) being considered optimum by many.

An older puppy or even an adult will be more mature, will likely be house-trained and generally very adaptable. Be sure to obtain a written receipt, health record, feeding instructions, grooming and general care information when you acquire your puppy.

If your puppy is stated as being a purebred you are legally entitled to a CKC Registration Certificate at no extra cost. The sale of purebred dogs is governed by the Federal Animal Pedigree Act. If such certificate of registration is not provided by the seller within six months of the date of sale, the buyer can lay an Information Charge against the seller for violation of the Animal Pedigree Act. The penalty for violation of the Act is a fine, or imprisonment.

Before purchasing your dog, you should establish certain criteria, which are prerequisite to a purebred dog's eligibility for CKC registration. If such criteria are not confirmed by the seller, you should not buy the dog. A RELIABLE BREEDER can be immeasurable help both when purchasing your dog and in advising in the future. Choose your breeder carefully.

Finally, remember that once you have bought a pet, its development is your responsibility. It must be provided with the proper care, training and facilities to ensure that it remains mentally and physically healthy and under control at all times.

Be sure that your new friend becomes a PET and NOT A PEST.