How do you the buyer select a pet that is right for you?

Well the first thing you should do is figure out exactly how much time you have to the the regular animal chores required. The things you need to do daily with any pet is feeding, cleaning and exercising. Then you must be prepared to also take the pet to the vets on a regular basis.

Here are items that you need to consider:

both cats and dogs need their nails trimmed. Cats will sometimes use a scatching post -- or unfortunately furniture or drapes. Dogs need their nails trimmed weekly.

Grooming -- all pets should received regular grooming. Cats to remove the dust, dander, debris plus loose coat. Same with dogs.

Feeding -- depending on what you feed, this can be a 5 minute chore or if you make the dog food yourself... it can require 30 minutes or more a day.

Exercise -- all animals needs exercise, cats choose the night time hours to perform racing up and down your halls <G>.... dogs require 2-4 walks a day, once they are old enough to 'hold' their business that is. A smaller breed requires less exercise than a larger breed. A backyard is a good place for some breeds to get some exercise, but, it shouldn't be the only exercise either. A well adjusted dog needs to be 'socialized'.

Once you have figured out the time you need daily to take care of your pet... now you should also consider:

vacations? do you take them? Are you able to bring your pets with you? If not you maybe forced to 'board' your pet in another facility. A cat can be left overnight with food out... a dog cannot.

Breed specific now with reference to dog?

Generally speaking a larger breed of dog requires more exercise daily than a smaller breed. A smaller breed can be more 'hyperactive' in short spurts than a larger breed.

If you are a health fitness person, that jogs daily or almost daily and you want a breed to 'jog' with you.... look for a larger hunting type of breed. If you are more of a couch potato, but, like to take walks, then a medium to small breed maybe for you.

Remember to do the research into a breed, before buying one. A dog that fits your lifestyle is more apt to be a dog that doesn't end up back in the Humane Society or another such agency.

Remember a dog will live from 6-16 years depending on the breed. You will want to be aware of the age expectancy of the breed wish to acquire. Larger breeds again have a slightly shorter life expectancies than smaller breeds.

A puppy purchased from a Breeder will more often than not (if breeder is reputable (more about that later)) will take a dog back if your circumstances change and you aren't able to keep the puppy you purchased. Always ask if the breeder of your breed (before you buy) will take back a pup they have bred if for whatever reason you need to return the dog.

Reputable Breeders - well this is a broad umbrella unfortunately....

A Reputable Breeder will do genetic testing of their dogs. They will not stand a dog at stud or a bitch that is producing problems that can cause long term problems with the life of their offspring. This includes and is not limited to: hips, eyes, thyroid, vWD, which are the 4 major problems with this breed. Additionally the temperament of your puppy should be outgoing and happy. Not scared of its own shadow!

A reputable breeder will 'rescue' their own. They will actively be involved in clubs and various dog organizations. They might not show in conformation, but, they should participate in some dog fancy events - herding, agility, obedience, pet therapy, etc.

If you are unsure of a breeder you can contact the 'Parent' organizations of their breed to find out if they are on a 'do not use' list. Most of these parent organizations have Rescue aspects and will know about your breeder or potential breeders.

Go to shows and watch your breeder choice. Whether its just for fun or not. Make sure that you feel comfortable with your breeder choice - after all you will be with them so to speak for 14-16 years in Shelties!

If you have any specific questions about contacting a breeder - please don't hesitate to ask. We try to answer all email inquires in a timely manner (24-48 hours most times). Even if you do not have one of our dogs!