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A Reputable Breeder will:
Keep the dogs inside the house as part of the family. The puppies need to be handled and talked to by as many different people, including children, and strangers as possible. The socialization needs to start even before the pups open their eyes all the way. The more the handling and talking to, the better.
A good dog breeder will not sell the puppies before they are eight weeks old.
Qualified dog breeders will take care of this and more. By the time you buy your puppy at eight weeks, it should already have some idea of potty training and good manners as well as chew-toy training. (Chew-toy training is when you stuff a chew toy with food such as small kibbles or other dog food and the pup learns to chew on the toy instead of your own belongings. The toy becomes “his.”
Your puppy may even have an idea what the commands “come,” ”lie down” and “sit” on command mean by the time you buy him/her. Ask the breeder and if so, continue practicing the commands immediately when you get home.
Socialization and training are the two key factors that will determine what the puppy will be when she grows up. If the breeder isn’t already providing this, FIND ANOTHER DOG BREEDER.
Take notes:
- By 8 weeks, a puppy should be fully sensitized to common household noises like vacuums, dishes, television and kids shouting.
- In addition, he should be well on his way to understanding potty training and chew-toy training. (Chew-toy training is stuffing a chew toy with food so he will learn to chew on it and leave your things alone.) This is all in the 8 weeks before you get the pup. If this has not occurred, something is wrong either with the dog or the breeder.
- Ask the breeder how many men, children and strangers and relatives have handled the puppy you are interested in. Hopefully, a LOT. If you want an adult dog that is affectionate and cuddles, the puppy has to been cuddled and held as a puppy.
- Handle each puppy. Note if the puppy enjoys being handled.. Is it calm and seemingly enjoying the handling? Does it like being petted around it's neck, ears, muzzle, tummy and back end? It should. Good dog breeders should have spent time with their pups and gotten them used to this.
- Insist on seeing and handling the parents of the puppy. The parents should be friendly and well socialized. Some excellent dog breeders may insist you handle the adults before letting you see the puppies.
- When approaching a litter of puppies, ALL the puppies should come toddling up to greet you and do a little biting (out of excitement) when they get to you. If a pup hangs back, he’s been under socialized. Period.
- If the breeder won’t show you the parents of the puppy, walk away. Something’s wrong.
- The breeder should be willing to give you information about life expectancy and possible illnesses of the breed. If not,. Move on.
- The breeder will give you a written contract and health guarantee, allow you time to read everything over.
- A reputable breeder will breed only one or two kinds of dogs, will have knowledge of breed standards.
- Will work close with local vet. Show you records for the puppies, go over medical history and what vaccinations for the puppy and what more they will need.
- Give advice on care and training of the pup after you take it home.
- Provide references of other folks that have purchased puppies.
- The puppies’ immediate and sustaining diet.
- Will keep you on waiting list for next litter. (A reputable breeder does not always have puppies available.)
- Encourages visits, wants whole family to meet puppy before buying.
- A good dog breeder will require you to return the puppy regardless of what problems you encounter. If the dog becomes ill, if he develops an problem with aggression, if you can not handle him as a mature dog, the breeder wants the dog back and NOT in a kennel or out on the street somewhere.
- No puppies will be sold in under 8 weeks of age.
The puppies' physique, behavior and temperament all suggest the breeder's capabilities. The puppies should be eager to see you, come running over to see you and offer no resistance to being picked up and played with.
AGILITY TRAINING - Kallie
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Additional Agility Training photos
(click to enlarge)
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