Older pup options - Page 1

I want to go the route of getting an older pup. I don’t want to raise a very young pup and I want a clearer picture of health and temperament. My initial thought was to import an 8-9 month old with prelims on hips and elbows. However, maybe there’s another route. I spoke to a breeder that produces the kind of dog that would be suitable for us. The breeder would choose the pup that would fit my family and needs best. She would keep the pup back up until 4 month’s old at which point can have the PennHip done. Her 8 week pups sell for $1900, holding the pup back until 4 months old (with imprinting, socialization, etc) would cost me $4500. I would be responsible for vet visits/ vaccines. It’s obviously not an apples to apples comparison, but I’d like the input of the members here. I don’t know what a quality 8-9 month old import would cost these days. Has anyone had experience with this?

I am not sure of the prices these days, but I think many police departments and agencies get 'green', tested (for abilities and suitability) dogs for around that price, with pre-lims already done. Duke1965 could give you a better idea of what a 'green' dog goes for.

Also, is this dog to be a family pet, a guardian, show dog or what? That will influence price as well.

I really would not go this route. but to each his own. like mentioned above, if I was in the market, I would contact duke (or any other reputable broker), and at least get a better idea.

he tests lots of dogs and I'm sure sees a lot that maybe fall just a little short of LE/Mil, but may be perfect for what you are looking for.

and just for the record, I got a titled, hips/elbows dog that went regional sigerin in USA, shipping and all for pretty close to that price. but I did go to Gernany and see her first hand.

good luck,

Rik

edit to add, I do think it is a very good plan to get an older pup as you can know teeth, hip/elbow prelims and also dm test (for what that is worth). I just don't think it's a good idea to provide an open check book to any breeder/seller, unless you have a very good, established relationship. JMO.

$4500 OMG. You can get a young adult fully trained, titled, and health tested for that money. This is a hell of a steal for this breeder. 

Jillmissal that is what I thought for 2 months of call it boarding, playing and doing what should be done with a pup of 4 months. 

Thanks all. I’ve been in contact with Duke and I’m confident he will find me what I’m looking for.

I think you will be very happy with duke's choice.

I ALWAYS say the most important part of looking for and buying a dog is to KNOW the person your dealing with...
If you're not comfortable with the breeder/broker then DON'T do the deal...
If you have a inclination that the deal isn't quite right then DON'T do it...

~Bob~

agree 100% with Qman. people sell dogs they don't want to keep. can be many reasons they don't want to keep them, from good to bad to very bad.

99.9% of the horror stories/rip off's posted here are from novice's who thought they were going to get a great dog at a bargain price from some flashy ad and pedigree. from someone they have never met or not bothering to see the dog in the flesh.

there are good, honest breeders/brokers. but there are many more just wanting to cash the check and wash their hands.

I've stated many times what I would do if I wanted a dog from Europe, and there are certainly some long time breeders/posters/brokers who have posted here for years that I would trust.

too many people think all they have to do is send a check (to someone they have no knowledge of), get a dog exactly like the one in the ad and they are on the way to fame and fortune.

as always JMO,
Rik