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Common Buyer Questions

Do your homework!  A puppy is a long term commitment!  There are hundreds of breeds out there. One will fit you better than the rest. 

Some questions you should ask your breeder are:

Can we pick our puppy or will you pick the right puppy for our needs?
A breeder knows each puppy.  Trust them to pick the right puppy for you, if that is their procedure.

 

How long have you been involved in this breed?
How long have you been breeding the Estrela Mountain Dog?

 

Do you have or breed other breeds?
If so how many and what type?
 

What activities do you do with your dogs?
Some breeders show their dogs, do community service with their dogs (like TDI-Therpay Dogs International, or other community/social type activities) *Not all Estrela may be suitable for TDI. 

 

Are your breeding dogs officially xrayed for joint issues? (hip and elbow)
The Estrela Mountain Dog has the risk of Hip and Elbow Dysplasia in the breed.  Breeders need to check their dogs, and breed responsibly.
It does not mean they should not breed a dog with mild dysplasia in some cases, but it means they are making educated smart decisions for the betterment of the breed.

 

Who are they registered with? AKC or UKC or both?
A breeder is concerned about the tracking of pedigrees.

 

What other health testing do you do?
They could also check Cardio, Eyes, etc.

 

Do you guarantee the puppy?
A good breeder will not only have a contract to protect all parties, they will also have a guarantee.

 

What are your terms if the puppy does develop genetic problems?
Warranty, Insurance? Does the breeder offer either of these?
 

Can we visit the parents of the litter?
At the very least the breeder should have the Dam on premises.

 

Will you give us the names of other puppy buyers?
The breeder should have no problem sharing references.  Or in the need for privacy now, at least have their references contact you.

 

Do you require that pet puppies be spayed or neutered?
Most breeders should be willing to discuss the reasons for altering your pet.
 

Will the puppies have their first shots?
They should be current on their vaccinations and worming.
 

Are they permanently Identified?
Microchip or Tattoo?

 

At what age do you place puppies?
The Estrela Mountain Dog Association recommends puppies do not leave their mom until at least 8 weeks.

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