Jewlieee
Posted : 5/8/2007 3:40:42 PM
Not to argue, but my breeder had 19 puppies available at one time this year. She breeds her 3 bitches once a year so all the puppies come at the same time. I was able to interview and meet her, meet her dogs (all house/farm dogs) and see where the puppies were raised. I also got to visit the puppies whenever I wanted starting at 4-5 weeks old. The pups were extremely well cared for and not born and raised in kennels. They were allowed in the house, had a doggy door and were really well socialized. I started walking my puppy on short walks at 6 weeks old around her farm so when I brought him home, he already knew me to a certain extent. With 19 puppies, several adult dogs, horses, geese and people coming and going during those 8 weeks, nothing phases my puppy.
So, you never know. This breeder could be a puppy mill type or a back yard breeder but you really need to go and see the place. If you couldn't go and visit and see the conditions for yourself then I'd be warning you against getting one of these dogs. But, as long as you can go make the judgement yourself then you make the call.
Whatever happens, it's so important to socialize your pup as soon as you get it home. Especially if it is kept in a kennel/cage and not given a lot of human contact. Don't hesitate and take it every where with you to meet all types of people, see different situations, etc.
Good luck.