==========PICKING
YOUR PUPPY==========
**********************
Even
experienced breeders will confide that picking a puppy can often be a difficult
task. A litter of pups can change dramatically from week to week leaving the
breeder in a quandary as to which one to retain for him or her self.
However,
several important points must be considered when faced with the challenge of
choosing your puppy. Invariably one tends to become confused but a little
careful study can eliminate those which fail to satisfy your requirements.
Undoubtedly
the temperament of the puppies is by far and away the most important aspect to
be considered when making your choice. Because temperament is to degree
hereditary endeavor to examine the temperament of not only the dam but also the
sire of the litter. They should be friendly, calm and confident when approached
and should not show any nervousness or aggression when examined. Do not forget
to check on the hip scores of both parents. The puppies should be happy, totally
friendly and should run to meet you. Under no circumstances should you purchase
a puppy which does not have good temperament, and never accept excuses offered
by breeders no matter however attractive a puppy may look to you.
Apart from
temperament, the most obvious points to look for are colour which should at this
stage be strong and deeply pigmented, because the black pigment will lighten as
the puppy gets older and a healthy strongly developed puppy with good bone is
essential.
Depending
upon your choice, the puppy should be clearly exhibiting its sex
characteristics, i.e. a dog should look like a dog { be masculine in build and
appearance } and like wise with a bitch puppy be feminine and clearly
distinguishable from the dog puppies.
A puppy at
this stage should be well proportioned with a firm backline and able to move
easily and reasonably soundly taking into consideration is very young age.
Study the
puppies at length. If possible ask somebody sufficiently experienced to help you
in your task. Do not take a puppy unless you are totally satisfied with it and
remember that you can always wait for another litter.