What to consider when selecting a Breeder

Choosing a breeder is one of the most important decisions you'll make when adding a Border Collie to your family. With so many breeders and associations out there, it can be confusing to know who is reputable and what credentials truly matter.

At Salinoback Border Collies, we are proud to be a registered breeder with the Master Dog Breeders Association (MDBA) since 2019 and verified with RightPaw, a trusted platform promoting responsible, ethical breeding practices.

Why Choose a Registered Breeder?

A registered breeder follows strict codes of ethics, health testing standards, and puppy welfare protocols. Registration with MDBA means we are held to high expectations for transparency, honesty, and the lifelong wellbeing of our dogs and puppies.

We don’t just breed Border Collies, we carefully raise and nurture them with a focus on:

• Temperament

• Intelligence

• Health

• Family suitability

Every Salinoback puppy is raised in a home environment, socialised from a young age, and placed with families based on best fit, not first in, first served.

What We Offer as MDBA Registered Breeders.

 MDBA Pedigree Papers
Your puppy comes with MDBA pedigree registration papers showing parentage and lineage, even if sold as a pet on the Limited Register.

 DNA Health Testing
All of our breeding dogs are DNA tested through Orivet for the Full Breed Profile. Puppies are DNA clear by parentage, giving peace of mind they are free from inherited diseases we can currently test for.

Ethical Breeding Practices
We do not breed carriers, and only choose dogs with exceptional temperament, health, and structure.

 Early Veterinary Care
Puppies are wormed regularly from 2 weeks, vaccinated, microchipped, and vet-checked before going to their new homes.

 Puppy Support & Education
We offer guidance on crate training, socialisation, feeding, and transitioning your pup into your home, plus ongoing breeder support.

Understanding Breeder Identification Numbers (BINs)

Each state in Australia requires a Breeder Identification Number (BIN), but it’s important to understand that holding a BIN alone does not mean someone is a registered breeder.

As MDBA members, our BIN is tied to our registered status. Unfortunately, anyone can apply for a BIN online, which is why many backyard breeders misuse the term “registered.”

Always ask breeders what association they’re registered with (e.g. MDBA, ANKC) and request their membership number. If they only have a BIN but no breeder association membership, they are not considered a registered ethical breeder.

Buyer Etiquette: Finding the Right Breeder

When searching for a puppy, your first priority should be finding the right breeder, not the earliest available litter.

We appreciate genuine, thoughtful enquiries. Please take the time to introduce yourself, share why you're drawn to the Border Collie breed, and what kind of home you’re offering. A one-line message like "How much are the puppies?" doesn’t reflect the level of commitment we’re looking for.

We also understand families may speak to other breeders. That’s perfectly fine, but please be upfront with us, we appreciate honesty if you’ve found a puppy elsewhere.

Key Questions to Ask Any Breeder:

• Are you a registered breeder with a recognised association?

• What organisation are you registered with? (MDBA, ANKC, etc.)

• Do your puppies come with pedigree papers?

• Do you DNA test your breeding dogs?

• Are puppies wormed from 2 weeks, and vaccinated and microchipped?

• Do you provide ongoing support after the puppy goes home?

In Summary

At Salinoback Border Collies, we are committed to breeding intelligent, healthy, and well-adjusted Border Collies for loving family homes. We do this through thoughtful pairing, ethical practices, and a love for the breed that drives everything we do.

We welcome your questions, your stories, and your commitment to raising a Border Collie with care and compassion.

We look forward to hearing from you and helping you find your perfect Border Collie match.