Two part post about buyers and breeders
I know what the basic backyard breeder is looking for. But how about breeders who care where their puppies are going? What do they want to see in a buyer? I wish there was a rubric to know what we will be judged against. It would be nice to know what will disqualify us from a puppy, or what part of our lives makes us desirable for a puppy. Likewise, how do I weed through the breeder websites? Are there words or phrases that signify something to be concerned about? Bonus question  : Am I putting too much into researching this decision to get a puppy? I'm beginning to think that maybe a puppy isn't our best option. But I'm seriously afraid of pursuing another rescue, only to break my children's(and my own) hearts again. I wish that we could come across another dog in a similar situation as Opal--we got her at 9 months, with very slight socialization problems and mild neglect. Or even better an adolescent dog that is well socialized and not neglected, just available for a home with people like us. ha! |
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| I think you are doing everything right. I'm really impressed at just how much you have done, and the lengths you've gone through. Makes me realize how foolish I was my first time around... I think a puppy is the right way for you to go at this point. I have lots of friends that want to get rescue dogs, and I always try and encourage any with young children that sometimes a well bred puppy from a reputable breeder will be the better way to go. YES dogs need rescuing. But as controversial as this may sound, your first responsibility is to the safety of your kids. And a reputable breeder will not only be breeding dogs for temperament, but can steer you towards a puppy that will have the sort of temperament that will work well with your family. |
| Unless you can find a rescue that is coming from a situation similar to yours with young children, I'd opt for a puppy from a reputable breeder too. There are some great OES in shelters, rescues and on ads like Craigslist but as you've found, people aren't always honest about a dog's temperament or maybe the dog just hasn't been thoroughly evaluated. Dogs that are surrendered are not always given up for behavioral issues but many are. Telling the difference isn't always easy and as you've learned, can be very dangerous. Some breeders may hesitate to place a puppy in a home with young children. Most people don't realize that these cute little furballs grow up to be big, powerful herding dogs. Even though they mean no harm, kids can expect to be knocked down during play. You have to convince breeders that your family is experienced with the breed and can deal with some rough play while at the same time, your kids will treat the puppy/dog with respect. No ear pulling or cute pictures of the kids riding the dog, etc. If they turn you down for a puppy simply ask them why. The worst they can do is tell you and then you'll know. You may be able to change the situation, which may just to have a securely fenced yard instead of invisible fencing or having a dog walker let the puppy out when no one is home during the day. Give a breeder reasons why you want one of their dogs. Don't annoy them but don't settle with just being turned down once if you want a dog from them. If it doesn't work out, maybe they aren't the breeder for you anyway. I can't stress enough that whether you are adopting a rescue or buying from a reputable breeder to be honest. If you have six kids under the age of 10, then be sure to make this known. Don't say you live on acreage when you really live in an apartment. Some breeders would turn you down for reasons that others may not. If they find out after the fact that you were not honest, chances are you may never get another dog from them. The OES world is very small and word gets around. If you're not honest and you get a puppy, it may not be the one that was best suited for your family. Don't be afraid to tell them you had to give a dog back to rescue due to her behavioral issues. There is no shame in that and it shouldn't disqualify you from getting a puppy from a good breeder with a history of dogs with even temperaments. Mostly, you have to have patience. OES aren't being bred in large numbers like many other breeds of dogs. You may need to get on a waiting list that can be quite lengthy. Don't contact a reputable breeder in November and demand a puppy for Christmas. Honestly, it probably isn't anything you have or haven't done, probably more a question of supply and demand. Stick to your standards, keep doing the research and the right dog will come along. Probably sooner than you think.  |
| Thank you Nita, for that advice. I don't think we are in too big of a hurry. I would like to find a something that would meet the age requirement for next year's 4-H season, but that's not all that important. Its more important that everyone in the family is truly ready for a new dog. I want bringing a new puppy in to be a joyous thing of its own. I don't ever want to give my kids the impression that pets are replaceable. They need to always remember the value and responsibility of life... especially a life that depends on people to meet its needs. Waiting, researching and really considering all the angles are good for them. |
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