Do's

Introduce yourself.  Many breeders speak with people from all over the country - make sure to mention  where you are located. 

Give some background information about yourself.  What is your experience with Ridgebacks?  If none, how did you decide on this breed? 

What is your home situation - do you rent or own, do you have a fenced yard? 

Who will be mainly responsible for the puppy and will someone be available to house train and provide the 3 meals throughout the day that puppies need? 

Most of all, breeders want to know what makes you a good home for one of their dogs.  Since they're going to ask all these questions anyway, you can save time by being open, honest and informative up front. 

You will have a relationship with your breeder for more than a decade, start off on the right foot; you'll have a mentor and a friend.

Don'ts

Send an email 'one-liner' with any of the following:  "Got puppies?", "How much are your puppies?" (Here is a site with average prices), or "Send information on your puppies". 

Don't say "I'm just looking for a pet" as if it's a second-rate animal that should be available on the cheap.  Pets come with the same health and breeder guarantee as show pups and are just as valuable in the breeder's heart. 

If your first concern is money, then you may want to investigate your local humane shelter for a companion.  A breeder will wonder - will this person skimp on food or health care if this is their primary concern before they even get a puppy? 

If you are looking for a pet quality puppy, you will be required to spay or neuter.  If that's a problem then you're not a qualified home.

And lastly, don't be in a rush.  Spend as much time and research looking for the right puppy as you would looking for a new car.  You'll have the dog longer anyway.