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Originally Posted by YorkieMan10  Agreed. I think it would be fine to have better resources on the Internet so people can find the reputable breeders... and most importantly, see the puppies they have to offer before contacting them. I don't know about you, but I don't want to go out and blindly meet a bunch of breeders that do not have puppies that interest me. |
I disagree with you. I bought my dog because I fell in love with his picture. I never met anyone, and I was never told he has sever LP. They seemed nice enough, but sent me a dog infested with fleas, and the worst case of nerves I've ever seen. as a first time dog owner, having him was almost a nightmare. He's a wonderful, well adjusted dog now, but we struggled at first.
The funny thing is, I found the guidance and support from owners, and a show breeder that I didn't find from my dogs breeder.
If I would have listened to the advice given in this thread, I would have waited longer for a dog, but I would have had a fun, exciting, pleasant experience from the beginning. I agree with you that meeting random people seems daunting. But the payoff is immense. If you don't want to meet people in their homes because it puts you in a vulnerable position, go to dog shows. I know it sounds silly, it did to me as well at one point, but it makes sense to me now. I'm not saying a show dog is superior, or I want show quality to toot my own horn. Instead, think of it this way, where else will you get a chance to meet other dog lovers that are all in one place at the same time? It's like going to one of those job conventions. You meet and get to know different people with hopes of walking away with something at the end of the day. Even if it's just an interview. What if we saw dog shows in a similar fashion? Wouldn't the dog show be a great resource?