If you have found a breeder you should ask them to show you a pedigree
of the pup. The 5 generation pedigree should not only show titles,
but OFA or PENN HIP (Hips) and CERF (Eyes) information. Some pedigree's
may also show OFEL (elbows), BAER (hearing), or PFK Clear (free of a type
of disease).
If you want to verify the OFA, OFEL, or CERF information, you can go to the web sites and search for the ancestors to make sure that these dogs have been examined. CERF's should be done YEARLY on any dogs that have been used for breeding - even after they may have been neutered or spayed. OFA will only issue numbers for dogs that are 2 years of age or older. OFA will do preliminary ratings and if you plan on doing strenuous activities (like agility) with your dog, you may want to have his hips x-rayed before you begin sports that involve jumping.
The pedigree will also give you an idea of what you might expect from your pup. I like to see performance titles. AKC Titles that may come before the ancestors names include: OTCH (Obedience Trial Champion) or FC, AFC, NFC, NAFC (Field Trial Champions). These are performance titles. CH is the designation for Conformation Champion. In other breeds of dog, you might find a DC (Dual Champion - Show & Field) or a TC (Triple Champion - Show, Field & OTCH). ESS haven't had a dual champion within the breed since the 1940's. AKC Titles that come after the name include: CD, CDX, UD, UDX (Obedience), NA, NAJ,OA,OAJ, AX (Agility), JH, SH, MH, & ESSFTA titles WD, WDX (Hunt), and finally TD, TDX, VST (Tracking). Please note that these titles are what you are likely to find on an ESS pedigree (Other breeds of dog achieve titles specific to what they were originally bred for).
When I see the performance titles within an ESS's pedigree, I believe those lines will produce smart, biddable dogs. Not only this, but when you see these extra titles, you know that the breeder has invested time, effort, and money into their dogs. This type of breeder won't normally sell their pups to just anyone - they'll make you feel as if you're applying for a job or trying to adopt a baby!
A reputable breeder will also perform Puppy Temperament Testing on their litters when the pups are approximately 49 days of age. From these tests (as well as daily interaction), the breeders can decide what type of home the pups would be best suited for. Yes, that is correct, a reputable breeder PLACES the dog, you don't get to pick the pup out for yourself. These breeders also keep their puppies until they are at least 10 weeks of age so that the pups learn proper behaviors which can only be taught by their litter mates and mother (such as bite inhibition). This breeder won't be advertising in the local paper, they are found by referrals (CHECK OUT PARENT CLUB SITES) or by going to performance events and talking with them. To find events near your home, go to the AKC or UKC web sites.
Finally, the reputable breeders that I know will take back a dog of their breeding due to divorce, death, or some other catastrophic event. They will find the dog a new home.
This type of breeder will always want to keep in contact with the people who have purchased a dog from them. They want to know everything - even the bad. This includes ANY AND ALL HEALTH ISSUES, as well as any temperament issues.