First and foremost, we believe all dogs should be intelligent and eager. They should be stable enough to be loving, loyal family dogs. They should be strong and smart, not aggressive and unmanageable. However, we cannot emphasize enough the importance of obedience training, socialization, discipline and patience in raising a puppy.
We have been breeding German Shepherd Dogs for over 17 years. Our children were raised with German Shepherds; therefore, we have always bred our shepherds with family in mind.
Our kennel environment is designed to stimulate and challenge the young minds of the puppies. They interact daily with an abundance of toys and new objects. They are continuosly handled by children as well as adults, and praised for positive behavior. We believe this is crucial for proper development socially, physically and mentally.
Our dogs and puppies are kept in a climate controlled, immaculate, parasite free housing facility. We have indoor/outdoor runs so that they may be exposed to both areas. This is how housebreaking begins. Even though the pup you acquire is young and not completely housbroken, he/she is on the way .... by the time they are ready to go.
Has always been to provide the family with a happy, healthy, loving dog. It is imperative that the pup be socialized, trained and disciplined to continue to achieve our goal.
Look for a breeder who, at a minimum:
Treats their dogs as part of the family -- not just outside in kennel runs with no interaction.
Has dogs who appear happy and healthy, are excited to meet new people, and don't shy away from visitors.
Shows you where the dogs spend most of their time -- an area that is clean and well maintained.
Encourages you to spend time with the puppy's parents -- at a minimum, the pup's mother -- when you visit.
Breeds only one or two types of dogs, and is knowledgeable about what is called "breed standard" (the desired characteristics of the breed in areas such as size, proportion, coat, color and temperament).
Has a strong relationship with a local veterinarian and shows you the records of veterinary visits for the puppies. Explains the puppies' medical history and what vaccinations your new puppy will need.
Is well versed in the potential genetic problems inherent in the breed--there are specific genetic concerns for every breed--and explains to you what those concerns are. The breeder should have had the puppy's
parents tested to ensure they are free of those defects, and they should be able to provide you with the documentation for all testing they have done through organizations such as the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA).
Gives you guidance on caring and training for your puppy and is available for your assistance after you take your puppy home.
Provides references of other families who have purchased puppies from them.
Feeds high quality "premium" brand food.
Doesn't always have puppies available but rather will keep a list of interested people for the next available litter.
Encourages multiple visits and wants your entire family to meet the puppy before you take your puppy home.
Provides you with a written contract and health guarantee and allows plenty of time for you to read it thoroughly. The breeder should not require that you use a specific veterinarian.
In addition to the above criteria, you'll want a breeder who requires some things of you, too.
A reputable breeder doesn't just sell their puppies to the first interested buyer!
The breeder should require you to:
Explain why you want a dog.
Tell them who in the family will be responsible for the pup's daily care, who will attend training classes, where the dog will spend most of his/her time, and what "rules" have been decided upon for the puppy -- for example, will the dog be allowed on furniture?
Provide a veterinary reference if you already have pets or, if you don't have other pets, they should ask which practices you are considering for your new puppy.

Copyright (c) 2010 - Bomar German Shepherds - All Rights Reserved - Chinook, Montana