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 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 1skye000@gmail.com Pointing breed information…Jon Marcott Arcticbirddog@hotmail.com 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 littermates. 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 to 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!
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