Hello,
We are a family of 4, interested in becoming a family of 5.  A bouvier puppy would complete us.  We live in The U.S.A.   What would it entail to add a puppy to our family.

Amy

I'd suggest going to the AKC website and also the breed club website (just type in Bouvier club of America) or something like that and see what both places have to offer. You can read about what makes a reputable breeder, what to look for and some great ideas for sources. (You can't trust beautiful websites of breeders without more research. Anyone can make a website) You can go to dog shows and talk to people. If one breeder's name keeps popping up, that just may mean that that one is a good one. But do read as much as you can first. I strongly recommend that. Find out, if you don't already know the genetic health testing that should be done on this breed, get proof from your breeder that you choose, make sure the temperament is what you want etc, etc. There's info on what things should be in your contract.

I thoroughly researched Dobermans before buying one. It took over a year of studying for 6 or 8 hours a day before I got mine. I studied all kinds of aspects about training dobes, nutrition, health/diseases, genetics, conformation, temperament, pedigrees and more. I was obsessed. This was not my first dog by any means, but my first Doberman. And I had read quite a bit before, but this was a whole new thing for me. It took almost that long to find my pup. The best breeders have waiting lists and don't breed a lot of litters. So, be patient.  Good luck!

Carrie