I would urge you to adopt from an OES breed rescue group instead of purchasing a puppy. Many OES become too large, too expensive, or too something else for their buyers between 6 and 12 months of age. If they are lucky, they end up with an OES breed rescue group. Many wonderful OES of all ages including young puppies and seniors over age 10 end up with OES breed rescue groups for a variety of reasons other than just behavior problems. A slightly older dog might actually fit into your lifestyle better than a needy puppy. Information on OES breed rescue by state is readily available on the Old English Sheepdog Club of America (OESCA) website and on the New England Old English Sheepdog Rescue (NEOESR) website. If you cannot find a rescue in the state where you live, contact someone in the state closest to you for advice and assistance or someone involved in rescue off the OESCA or NEOESR websites. OES breed rescues are also the best place for anyone looking for an OES. Most OES breed rescue groups have more dogs available than are listed on their websites. If you do decide you definitely want to purchase a dog from a breeder, please purchase a puppy directly from a breeder of show champions. In the best case scenario, both parents should be show champions with health certifications. Show champion breeders usually have pups deemed pet quality in each litter. Do not purchase a cute puppy from a backyard breeder or a puppy mill breeder via the internet. Only the best OES should be bred and buying from someone who is not showing champions only hurts the breed in the long and short run. Good luck with your search for a great OES! Be careful as they are addicting and one might not be enough! |
