GreatDanes Online

Shadow · Site Admin Joined: 15 Nov 2007 Posts: 26

This is a list of quality kennels of other breeds besides Great Danes. These are some things I suggest if you do if you are a pet owner and not a seasoned breeder.

1)Do not get involved in a co-ownership or any breeding rights with a breeder. If you are not kennel yourself and know the pro and cons of getting involved in co-ownerships, breeding rights and showing responsibilities, then don't be talked into something like this or it can mean a nightmare down the road and possibly having to give up your dog.

Later down the road, if you become interested in showing a dog and do get involved in the breeding aspect of dogs, then always work with a written contract in the sale of pups or co-ownerships. That way every knows what is expected and no friendships are lost or dogs taken back.

2) Purchase your pet on a limited registration and spay or neuter at the appropriate time.

3) Make sure the parents have had the health checks appropriate to that breed and request a Xerox copy at the time of purchase, to be included in a puppy packet.

4) Make a list of questions before you go see the litter, and do not take a checkbook or cash with you if you are not disciplined enough to say NO if it is not the right situation for you.

5) Quality breeders will "rake you over the coals" - this is actually a good sign, it means they care about their dogs and want as good a home or better for their animals, than even they can provide. Plan on asking them important questions and do not be intimidated by them, their ribbons or show records. Just because a kennel is successful in the ring does not necessarily mean they are ethical. 'When in doubt - walk away.

6) If you do not have an already fenced in yard and are not willing to use a crate then don't bother the breeder. Good kennels will insist on a fenced in yard for any large/giant breeds.
Crate training is essential to teaching your dog to be a good citizen of the breed.

7) Every breed has its own Parent Club which will list breeders within each state. Start by going to the American Kennel Club website and locate the parent club and breeders in your state. www.akc.org

Cool

When in doubt DON'T purchase the puppy....start again - do not be impatient!!

9) If the kennel you find below does not have puppies, ask them to make suggestions as to where to find other good kennels.

10) If you find a kennel from this website to not use my name as your personal reference. I do not know the numbers of people using this website, so unless you know me personally you need to have other references to give the breeder.

Good Luck on your search!!!

Linda Arndt ~ Canine Nutritional Consultant