Contacting a breeder - useful information? - Page 1

I hope to import a GSD in two years or more .

I sent an email to a breeder I like, wrote him what I was looking for in a dog, told him about my history of dog keeping (it ain't long) and my hopes for what I want.

I've never been in a contact with a breeder before and I know they're as different as they are many, but does it bother you breeders when people mail you so early in the process?? Asking questions and so on?

And yeah, what should I ask the breeder? Pretty new in this!

His dogs are featured on his website, along with their health checks and working titles, his kennel's saga as well.

He has a good reputation and I've seen many dogs from him doing well

With kind  regards.

I guess it would depend on the breeder. Some are very helpful and will understand that you are wanting the right dog and willing to do your homework. While others will call you a tire kicker (but they are the ones that are just in it for the $$$$$ IMPO)

It took me over a year to find and watch the breeder I got my two dogs from. I wanted to learn all I could about the lines, and how other people were treated and thought of their dogs. And I have not regreted getting mine and had a great experience with the breeder. 

So I give you  for wanting to learn more and doing your homework. (so many don't)

PS if a breeder does not have time to answer your questions or what to help you now ... do you think they will later after you buy the dog?  just food for thought

EK

I'd suggest trying to arrange a visit to meet the breeder and their dogs and discuss their breeding program aims, sales contract and the kind of home you are offering.  However, if you are looking for an adult dog in 2 years time, there is not really much the breeder can tell you about a dog that is either not available right now or possibly not even born!  If you are looking for a puppy, they should be able to tell you what their forward breeding plan is likely to be, but again, in 2 years things could change as any breeder will be likely to review their breeding program in the light of new knowledge of the dogs involved.  Also, your requirements could change over time and specific information now may simply not be relevant anymore.

Contacting a breeder this far in advance should receive an interested and welcoming response, but I don't think you can expect to get any real information about the actual dog you will buy, just an impression of the sort of service you can expect from that particular breeder.

Margaret N-J