Big Dogs

Buying A Large Breed Dog From A Purebred Breeder

It is important to visit several breeding kennels before buying your large breed puppy. Never make a spontaneous selection from the first litter seen on the first visit to a single kennel. Observe the traits and behaviors of as many litters as possible.

Discuss with the breeder the general personality and traits of your chosen breed. The habits of each puppy are individual. Some will have a temperament that is adaptable and will be influenced by his bonding with you and your attitude and ability to train him. However, you must also be aware of certain traits inherent in each large breed.

Ask different trainers, handlers, and breeders many questions to satisfy your information needs. Conscientious breeders will furnish printed information about their strain or bloodline of the breed. They will happily answer your queries and probably will ask you more questions than you are prepared to answer. They will have information about the proper age to take a puppy, and should reassure you of their puppies' socialization. A good breeder will not sell the dog to you if they feel it is not suitable for your situation.

Ask about purchase price, return privilege, guarantee, veterinary examination, and routine parasite control. You need to know as much as possible about each breeder's puppies before you commit to purchase.

You may be asked not to touch the puppies if they are only a few weeks old. Do not be insulted; this precaution is to protect the valuable litter until first vaccinations have been administered. Simply observe the puppies at play. If you think you have made a decision, ask the breeder to mark the pup for you. Usually, the toenails of a hind foot are painted with a certain color of nail polish to denote your selection.

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