Are you looking for that perfect Mastiff puppy? You feel the Mastiff is just the best dog that ever (we concur whole-heartedly!). You need the perfect Mastiff puppy to become part of your family But the question is: Just where to you start? Use every means available, search the classifieds, ask friends, etc. But one of the most effective ways is to visit dog shows and network with Mastiff owners. Owners are dedicated the breed and love to "talk shop".
Don't get a puppy based on convenience. Be patient, show dog owners are happy to share their knowledge of good Mastiff breeders, or they may raise puppies themselves Why would they be so nice? First, they love dogs - and obviously Mastiffs in particular. And they show Mastiffs. They wouldn't want any second rate or substandard breeder to be perpetuating inferior dogs.
So you can count on these folks being pretty candid about the good and bad breeders they've encountered. As you talk with these people, you'll undoubtedly acquire several business cards of different breeders. Follow up on these leads.
Telephone them. Chat with them for a while. This conversation doesn't commit you to even viewing a litter. What should you be getting from this conversation? You're getting a feel for the breeder's" dog ethics" as well as his or her commitment to the Mastiff as a breed. Don't worry that you may not be exactly sure what answers you're looking for - or even what questions to ask.
Right about now you're going on your intuition. Trust me, you'll know. A good example of an inferior breeder would be someone who is mainly interested in talking dollars. What your looking for is a "Mastiff ambassador". Listen to how willing he is to listen and answer your questions.
Take your time and do your homework. This is a major decision . When you find a quality breeder, who has a litter available or soon to be available, make an appointment. Be prepared to get the "second degree".
A good breeder is concerned about where his pups will end up. Here though are a few tips in the way you may want to steer the conversation. Of course you'll want to ask how long he's been a breeder.
Ask why he owns them. Are his Mastiffs show dogs or house pets? Don't be afraid to ask about the health issues associated with the breed. Every breed has some distinguishing health concerns. It's always best to know what the issues are before adopting. Ask the breeder what the Mastiff's most important single characteristic is.
This question alone gives you quite a bit of insight into his reputation and his thinking. The breeder should also have plenty of questions for you, don't be offended. A lot of questions from a breeder is a good thing. You'll have narrowed your choices down to a few good breeders. You may have to wait a while, which is difficult but good in the end.
Dog breeders sell their puppies on a first-come first-choice basis. If you feel the wait is more than you can bear, check down your list for the next breeder. But remember, patience is a virtue when if comes to finding the right Mastiff. Finally, all the research and waiting is about to pay off--the puppies are here! Make arrangements for a visit.
You may or may not take the puppies home, depending on their age. And make sure the entire family participates in the selection process. If you're looking for a show dog, you'll want to make sure your puppy meets the physical characteristics for the breed. On the other hand, if you want a dog who is going to be a loyal family pet, then it's not as important that the dog meets all the physical criteria of the breed. You're looking for the most lovable pup in the litter.
Make your decision, then agree on the price. Of course you may need to wait to pick up your puppy. Take this time to prepare your house. What's a little more waiting? Oh, by the way - have a great time with your new "baby"!.
Get more advice about Mastiffs sign up for my complimentary 7 day e-mail class all about mastiff training. Find the perfect mastiff puppy here: Finding Mastiff puppies
