Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

As a new puppy buyer there is a plethora of information available and the breeder might be a natural source of information and support. The aim of this study was to investigate how breeders acquire their knowledge, how they convey this information to the puppy buyers and if there are any follow ups planned. Another aspect covered was to what extent breeders are informing puppy buyers on different topics and if the breeders are taking any precaution in securing the retention of the information given. Data was collected through a survey made available online via Netigate, during 2024. A total of 319 completed questionnaires were registered and the results showed that a majority of the respondents have attended some kind of education aimed towards breeders and/or have a mentor for further support. The vast majority of respondents stated that they convey the information given to puppy buyers both verbally and in text format and most of them ensure that the information given is understood and retained. In the opinion of the respondents, they are presenting information about nutrition, development stages, socialization, alone time, house-training and husbandry topics such as grooming, nail trim and even some veterinary matters, to a high degree. The deviation in extent of information given, was in regards to preventative care for dental health where the respondents didn’t inform about the topic in the same extent as with the other topics. Slightly more than half of the respondents had planned follow ups with the new puppy buyers after the delivery of the puppies, and many stated that they are always available for questions or support.