Finding Mastiff Puppies for Sale
Yep, there’s no doubt about it, you’re hooked. You think that the Mastiff is just the greatest dog that ever lived (and quite frankly, we’re not about to argue with you!). So now your quest to find a purebred Mastiff puppy to call your own begins.
How to you find this elusive “perfect puppy”?
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”.
By all means, check the paper. Then visit some dog shows. Show dog owners may be breeders or may know of some quality breeders. Show dog owners will be happy to guide you in your quest for your Mastiff pup.
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.
If the breeder is too worried about the monetary value of the dog, then perhaps his commitment and love of the breed isn’t quite strong enough. But if you can’t stop the breeder from bragging about the bloodline, or how “adorable” or smart or “picture perfect” his pups are . . . well, you might have hit upon a high-quality breeder. You’ll also have a sense of his reputation, by the way he allays your fears or doubts about your new venture.
Don’t rush these phone calls. Your puppy will be with you for a very long time .
Find out how long he’s bred Mastiffs, what he loves about the breed. Depending on your interest, you’ll want to know if his Mastiffs are show dogs or pets. Ask about issues particular to the breed such as property needs and health issues.
Also, expect the breeder to ask as many questions or more than you. Expect to be interrogated–that’s a good sign.
After you’ve narrowed your search, the waiting begins. Puppies are sold in order of interest so be expected to wait, however if they way is too long, just pick the next breeder on your list.
Finally, you get that call you’ve been waiting for. The babies are ready for viewing. By the time you get a chance to view your potential new baby, he’ll probably be eight to ten weeks old. At this age, the puppies will easily display their various personalities. You’ll also be able to see how these little guys (relatively speaking) interact with you and your family.
Oh, yes, by all means take the entire family to this viewing session. It’s absolutely essential right from the start that each member of your family has a chance to participate in this decision.
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.
After you negotiate your price, you may have to wait another week or two. That will give you time to prepare your home for the latest member.
Have a great time with your new puppy!
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