Quote:
Originally Posted by Lorraine  When you are buying a puppy regardless of pet or show, you do want to see what the breeder has over the years in their adults. That is more likely what you will get. Also, an experienced breeder will have a better idea of what a puppy will likely look like.
However, you must realize there are surprises and the younger you sell a puppy or a buyer buys one, the less idea the breeder will have to size and appearance of a puppy as an adult.
I don't like to sell a puppy less than 4 months old partly because I want to see for myself what they might turn out like, temperment will be like, also for the reason that if I am selling for pet, I match a puppy with a prospective home and what kind of home it would be best suited for.
Size is not that predictable so people who have bought thinking they are getting a 'teacup' because it was so small at 10 weeks or whatever, got quite a surprise when it did get to be 7 lbs, certainly much larger than they thought.
Long time breeders know this, I do not guarantee size other than if I am selling one at say 7 months and it is 5 lbs, you are not getting a 4 lbs yorkie.
I have run on puppies that I was hoping will make size and didn't by the time they were a year, some I sold thinking they are going to be no more than 4 or 4 1/2 lbs and they are 6 lbs. They matured late which can happen.
Doubling the 12 weeks weight is ball park only and that ball gets hit out of the park more often than you think. |
I didn't mean weight was predictable between 4-6 pounds. My comment was directed at the people who believe that winding up with a fifteen pounder is the risk you take with any breeder. Getting a puppy from a reputable show breeder generally means he will be within the under seven pounds standard, doesn't it? Or am I mistaken?
I am much more knowledgeable about Maltese who have the same weight standard. While show breeders will occasionally have an eight or nine pound adult, adults weighing in the teens usually are poorly bred and have Bichon in their background.
Thanks for your help in trying to understand this!