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Originally Posted by Woogie Man  Lifestyle will certainly impact a dog's health. Lack of exercise will definitely have a negative impact on the body. Also, many of the pre-packaged treats are not healthy.
These things will affect a dog, but usually it's an effect seen later in life. I don't think it really reflects on the breeder except that some people seem to think that any problem, at any stage of life, is the breeder's fault. That is not fair and it brings about the question of the responsibility of the owner. A breeder shouldn't be held responsible for the poor care a dog may be given by its new owner.
Since we both used the word 'challenged' in our posts, I would like to clarify. When I suggested feeding a high protein food to a pup to challenge the function of the liver, I used 'challenge' to mean to test the working of the liver. I *think* you mean challenged as in compromised. Just pointing that out so no one gets confused. |
Yes challenged does mean compromised in my sentence.
To speak to the other paragraphs, breeders should speak about the risks of overweight dogs, the need for good wholesome and safe exercise, and how exercise cautions and safety changes as your pup matures to an adult dog. If you have in your puppy packet some of these things, along with vacc protocols, and as well in conversation emphasize those things, it gives instruction(s) to the new puppy parent. Show and describe how you can tell if your dog is overweight. Explain how to measure and to feed the appropriate amount of food per day.
For YT's jumping up and down like a jumping jack,as a young pup, might damage the knees, and or other joints. Besides which, it is good to start young, to train the pup, how to greet nicely newcomers. Sit, be still, get treats and lots of good pets
I rarely buy store bought training treats, I make my own, and or use, fresh veggies, leftover chicken, lamb, or beef. They are all cut down for my YOrkie to small pea size. I emphasize to new puppy owners treats are rewards, for good behaviour. Obedience commands, rewards for good potties, etc.
While I don't breed yorkies, I do intend to breed my BRT;s. these are large dogs, and have as well some unique, training and growth challenges. For example; you don't want to put weight too fast on the young growing pup. Their bones don't fuse until 18mths and some slow maturing lines, 24mths. No high jumping, no hill descents, etc before at least 18mths.