Choosing A Puppy

Are you planning to buy a puppy, adopted, or trained dog?

The Arctic Bird Dog Association can provide valuable insight and referrals if you are looking for a pointing breed or spaniel.

CONTACTS:

Spaniel Information – Mike Kasterin – [email protected]
Pointing breed information – Hilde Stapgens – [email protected]

GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR CHOOSING A PUP:

  • Find on the web or get a referral to a breeder who specializes in the type of dog you desire. ABDA often has information about available litters.
  • Buy a field bred dog if you wish to compete in field events or hunt with the dog.
  • Buy a dog from proven show stock if you wish to show the pup.
  • Get help reading pedigrees…it’s available through ABDA
  • If at all possible, see the sire and dam before buying. What you see is at least 60% of what your pup will be!
  • Be sure the pup’s parents have hip and eye certifications.
  • Never adopt a pup before 8 weeks of age! Many quality breeders will not place pups until 10 weeks of age. The 8-12 week period in a dog’s life is when they learn socialization with other dogs through interactions with litter mates.

If you desire a trained dog be sure you see the dog in action, and meet the trainer/owner. They will provide pedigrees. The dog should have hip and Eye certifications. Adopting an adult dog or even a fairly young one with no training requires you to be ready to begin training and socialization as with a pup. You should be aware of where to get help, and have sufficient time and patience to integrate the dog into your life successfully.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Whether you buy or adopt a dog – please be sure your family is okay with having a new member, and that your husband/wife and children understand that training a puppy takes time. They will be involved.

Remember, your new dog may be with you as long as fifteen years or more!

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