Expert Feature: Puppy Shopping & Committing to Dog Ownership
September is Responsible Dog Ownership Month! At Paction, one of our missions is to empower puppy shoppers with the knowledge and confidence to make the best possible decisions when choosing what kind of dog to get and where to get it from. Informed choices lead to happier dogs, stronger bonds, and fewer dogs ending up in shelters. To help guide you, we've teamed up with three experienced Canadian breeders who share their top tips and candid advice for anyone considering bringing a dog into their life. Whether you're just starting your research or narrowing down your options, don't miss this chance to hear directly from Paction's experts!
Canine Science Researcher
Laura Gillet, PhD Candidate
Laura is a canine scientist and psychologist studying ethology at Eötvös Loránd University in Budapest, Hungary. In this video, she discusses perceived costs and benefits of companionship dogs to help prospective owners assess the commitment.
Participate in a Canine Research Study
Read more about Laura's work
A survey of dog owners mapping perceived positives (love, companionship, physical activity) and challenges (financial and practical burdens) of having a dog.
An overview of the rewards and challenges of dog ownership, covering emotional, financial, and time commitments.
Canadian Breeders
Brenda of Bren's Doodles
Goldendoodle Association of North America
Bren’s Doodles is a small, ethical, home-based Goldendoodle breeding program in British Columbia, dedicated to raising healthy, well-tempered companions through responsible practices. As a Gold-Level member and board representative of the Goldendoodle Association of North America (GANA), Brenda follows the highest standards of health and genetic testing for all parent dogs. Puppies are raised with proven early development protocols such as Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS), Early Scent Introduction (ESI), and socialization techniques from Puppy Culture and AviDog. At seven weeks, each puppy completes formal temperament testing to help ensure the best possible match with families based on lifestyle and personality.
View Brenda's Paction Profile
Maureen of Clanagroe Kennel
American Cocker Spaniel Club of Canada
With over 40 years of dedicated breeding experience, Maureen, founder of Clanagroe Kennel, has built a reputation for raising American Cocker Spaniels with exceptional temperament and health. A long-standing member of the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) and current Vice President of the American Cocker Spaniel Breed Club of Canada, Maureen brings deep breed knowledge and passion to everything she does.
Kelley of Bridgeland Poodles
Canadian Kennel Club
Bridgeland's Standard Poodle breeding program focuses on producing healthy, well-rounded puppies from proven lines, with the goal of bettering the breed and bringing joy to families across Canada. Breeding pairs are genetically and temperament tested, and puppies are raised with care through a Puppy Graduation Program.
Cindy of Heartland Papillons
Heartland Papillons
Cindy has been breeding sport and performance dogs for 20 years. She is passionate about the difference a great breeder can make for their puppies, and shares how she sets puppies up with early foundations to support a smooth transition into their new homes.