Deposit=Sold, until then all bets are off ???? - Page 4

Echo - I can tell you, the first time I saw a real West German show GSD (I was told " THIS one's not for sale - they were selling working pups), I immediately decided that was what I wanted and asked for the name of the breeder where they got their dog. I was SO naive, but it didn't matter - when I saw the pup and knew which one I wanted, N-O-T-H-I-N-G could have kept me from buying him...***however, I didn't have all the funds upfront...the breeders were good people and I asked them what they needed and told them to name the price that they thought was fair and I would pay it - PERIOD! They did and I did. I said all that to say that when a good potential GSD owner (Yes, I AM one!) comes around and wants one, like Bob-O said - wild horses won't keep them from bringing up the subject of money - because they'll do what it takes whether hell or high water to get the puppy secured for themselves. The fact this person didn't do that - whether naive or not - might just be the red flag you needed. I have also come close to purchasing dogs before and assumed that until my deposit is in their hands, neither party is obligated to hold the pup back or to purchase it. Sometimes breeders are so eager to get the cute & hungry little destructive buggers a home ( and out of theirs!), that they'll commit you before you are committed, too, and then get angry with you if you decide not to buy. That is also ridiculous.

Hi to all Too funny!!! I'm the one that Mitch is referring too. I debated whether to post anything or not but I think this is a great learning experience for both sides (potentional buyer/seller) plus it is providing good discussion. There are a lot of lurking potentional buyers out there that will read this post. I know because I was one of them and that is how I came to communicate with Mitch as well as the breeder I ended purchasing my puppy from. So, since I am responding I guess I should clarify some things since in the future I may make a comment or ask a question and do not want to have the reputation as being a flake, whishy whashy or indecisive. I am also the reason that Mitch came up with the post "Opinions on Shipping... Please, Thank You !!" - which is ironic because at the same time I was debating and should have posted "purchasing a pup site unseen?" I contacted Mitch around 2 weeks prior to that post because since I was lurking I read several of her comments and was impressed with her honesty and the points she was making. I told her how impressed I was with her breeding philosphy, etc. and felt that she could refer me (which she did) to some breeders she would be comfortable with purchasing a puppy site unseen. Of course I felt pretty honored knowing that she does not ship but she was considering me. So, it was really a week Feb. 13 (her "shipping" post) till Feb. 20. when I was notified the puppy was sold over the weekend. And here is the learning experience on both sides - She did not want to appear pushy and ask for a desposit and I did not want to appear pushy (I was waiting for some pictures of the puppy to show my husband - since we would be purchasing a pup site unseen) to keep asking her for pictures knowing how leary she was about shipping. Yes, Mitch I have to say that I was disappointed but that very day..... I received an email from a breeder who I had corresponded with weeks prior (I also liked her honest posts and opinions. She just wanted to see how things were going and if I had any luck finding the right puppy. It turned out that she had a puppy that she thought would match our family perfectly. Becuase I learned my lesson I was very specific about seeing some pictures and getting referrals all of which she sent within 2 days. I inturn asked her if it was possible to hold the puppy until I had a chance to talk to my husband (since she has been through her very own learning experiences) she told me that until I had a deposit she couldn't guarantee anything. I understood that and just crossed my fingers that all would work out. That was just last week and today I have the most wonderful puppy!! I truly believe that things happen for a reason. Mitch's puppy went to the wonderful home she was meant to go to and I was meant to get the one that I did. Bottom line - both breeders - Mitch and the one I purchased my puppy from absolutely love their dogs and only want the best placement for them. You can obviously see that by talking to them. That means a lot to a potential buyer. Mitch I truly do not have any hard feelings!!! You didn't know me from adam. I think you are a wonderful person and I absolutely love your breeding philosophy. I would definitely recommend you to anyone that asks. :) Phew that was certainly long winded - sorry. one more thing.... Shelly Strohl you rock woman!!!

I agree with everyone here. Yes you should have asked for a deposit, but what I have done in the past is this; if someone is talking to me about a specific pup and I have someone else who is interested and will be coming to SEE the pup in person, I write or call the first person and tell them "I have someone else interested in this pup. Did you decide if you wanted her yet? If not, this puppy is available to the new people." That way I give them the option at that time to either put down a deposit or to give up their right to getting this puppy. A lot of times it makes them decide one way or another. It is not rude, it just makes good sense and then no one gets slighted in any way. This has come after being in the business for many years, it is easiest to me and then I don't hurt anyone's feelings. Peggy @ knightenhaus

ElenaO I'm so glad you got a pup. This was a learning experience for all and it's so good to see a maturity level from both of you that is so rare these days.

I am so glad to see so many good responses... Elana I am elated that you were able to find a super pup for you and your family, I have been sick over this whole thing, and NOW I know it absolutely was my fault !!! I am so so very sorry for hurting your feelings, Please know that was never my intention and that it was simply due to my "LACK" of experience. I am so sorry. But I'm very happy you found a great dog, and I hope you'll know that your always welcome to call, if you EVER have anything you need/want to discuss please know you are so very welcome to do so at anytime Day or night. Your Awesome Elana !!!!

Am I on the right database? LOL SO happy for both of you that all worked out. You BOTH deserve a round of applause!

UMMMM..I agree Shelley Strohl ROCKS!!!

Thanks guys. You're making me blush. Both Jackie and Elena are a pleasure to deal with. It makes me very happy to know they have my precious puppies because I know they will love them and give them the best homes there are. Knowing they and their families are happy makes all the late nights in the whelping boxes, miles traveled to studs dogs, worry about loose stools, ruined food processors from powdering puppy food, treks to the feed store for food and shavings, shredded clothing, times I've landed at the bottom of the stairs withOUT the bucket of water I went up for, and all the other TragiComedies that come with the territory... worthwhile. I just wish everyone was so wonderful to deal with. Your friend, Shelley