help with deciding which puppy to bring home - Page 1

 We have narrowed our search for a new gsd to 3 females.  We go to see them every week at the breeders to see their progress in developing.  The smallest female is very sweet, but can be bossy.  The middle one likes to play with toys and seems the most confident.  The largest one ( the one we originally picked) seems to be a bit whiny and not sure of herself and is constantly panting.  I am very concerned about the panting because it is CONSTANT even when she is not hot or running around.  Any thoughts?

If the pupppies have a good report at the vet's office disregard the paning of the puppy.  What's hot to you is sweltering for a dog.

In your description it sounds as though your preference is for the medium sized pup.  Follow your heart and relax and enjoy your new pup!

Hi

I always look for the one who first comes to you. The one who is confident, not scared of noises.

I sometimes shake my keys a little and see who wants to find that noise.

Of course, it is your choice. But, it helps to ask the breeder which one is normally the leader and is sure of themselves.

What ever plans you have for new baby, good luck.

Oh, as far as the panting.

That could be alot of things. It could be nervousness. Or it could be high energy. The high energy could

be put to use in the working part of the dog.

But, if the dog is for a pet, then the one who is confident and calm is best suited.

Good luck.

Middle one

definately the middle one. That is awesome that you go and see them and aren't rushing to get a puppy from just anyone who has them ready to go.

Puppies are so fun. I'm sure you'll enjoy him/her.

It all depends on what you're looking for in a puppy.  From someone who has researched and gotten a few puppies over the past few years (both for myself and for family members), "confident" can work both ways.  A confident puppy can also become a headstrong dog who wants to do what it wants and can become dominant if you let it.  If you want a dog that you can work, then confidence can be a good thing.  If you want a family pet and don't plan on doing a lot of formal work with it, then confident may become a problem.

If you already have a dog, then a "bossy" puppy may not be the best option.  If you don't have another dog and eventually want to bring another one in, you'll have to make sure the second dog isn't also a bossy-natured dog or you'll have some real problems.

If the larger one is whiny and panting, it could just mean she's a little nervous.  Does she eventually relax when you're around her?  How does she interact with her sisters?  Is she the one getting beaten up by them or is she the instigator?  These are questions you can ask the breeder or it would be great for you to see the puppies in action and how they interact with each other.  Play behavior can be an important thing to observe to get a general idea of temperament.

You want to get the dog who seems friendly, doesn't display a lot of dominance or aggressive play with her littermates and has a look of health and generally a happy puppy.  It all basically comes down to the puppy that you seem to have the most rapport with.  You're actually quite lucky to be able to visit the puppies regularly because most people don't get that.  You just place your order and hope for the best. 

MomofBeckett