I haven't compiled a list yet. As I've said previously (elsewhere) I'm taking my time looking over various breeders--big and small--at reptile shows. I like meeting people--especially business contacts--"
hairy eyeball to hairy eyeball".
Some of the attributes/qualities I'm looking at (beside how beautiful/"cool" their BDs may appear--
in no particular order):
- Professionalism (Not just do they have a business card? :wink: )
Consistency (Do they consistently have their act together)
Do they listen? (Some avoid/dodge straight answers, or try to "sell" you something you didn't ask about. I've seen one that's been consistently "pushy" and tries to provide answers they think customer wants to hear, which brings me to...)
Candor (Do they seem "real", or are they spouting a line of Dragon Poop?)
Attitude (Do they come off as though they're godzilla's gift to herpetology?)
Reputation (Should be self-explanatory)
There are probably more I'm not putting into words at the moment.
I'd like to hear others' criteria for choosing a breeder.
The only breeder on Brandon's list I've heard of before is Dachiu. (I've also heard that you don't pronounce it--you
sneeze it. :laughing6: )
They'll be at an upcoming show; I'm looking forward to looking them over.
One type I'm not
necessarily ruling out are BYBs. In my search for breeders local to me, I found many that might be considered BYBs--small "hobby breeders" who seem to care more than some of the larger breeders. I also prefer to do business with people local to me when other factors equal/cancel out.
YMMV