· Your breeder may belong to the Bull Terrier Club of America and/or one of the many regional Bull Terrier Clubs around the country? Membership in one or both is a good indication of more serious involvement in the breed. Also, to belong, a person has to be sponsored by two people who are already members. Membership in an All-Breed dog club or a Training Club is a plus. Participation in the Clubs’ activities usually indicates depth of involvement and dedication to the Breed. Here they (and you) can learn about care, training, socialization and up-to-date breeding practices. Frequently, they will be breeding in accordance with a club “Standard of Conduct”.

· Is your breeder involved in some form of AKC sanctioned competition with his/her dog(s)? This is an indication that your breeder is not breeding “in a vacuum”. The breeder who does not show may have no idea how good his/her dogs really are and is deprived of the opportunity to share information and ideas with other breeders. Showing is a competition, which encourages a breeder to produce better dogs. Breeders who show do not rely solely on a pedigree to indicate quality. A show ring is a forum that indicates how closely a dog conforms to his standard, as opposed to the other competitors. Even though you may not want a show dog, you deserve a puppy that was the end result of a carefully planned litter that received the same care and socialization as a potential champion. The breeder who shows is known by others, has a reputation to uphold and will likely be more careful and honest in selling you a pet or show stock.