If you have your heart set on getting a purebred dog, no matter which breed you choose, there are going to be certain health issues associated with that breed. Finding a breeder who is well versed in your chosen breed’s particular health issues will go a long way to ensuring your puppy will enjoy a long, happy and healthy life.
Vanessa Dutton, owner of Guardian Kennels, located just north of Brooks, AB, is one of those breeders. She has been breeding Shiloh Shepherds for 17 years. And just like all breeds, Shiloh Shepherds have a number of health issues that can be passed on from one generation to the next. So, we sat down with her to find out how she helps make sure her puppies are healthy (and happy).
Genetics is a complicated science, and when it comes to health issues, responsible breeders will actively choose pairings (moms and dads) that have the best chance of producing puppies without any major health issues, says Vanessa.
“Knowledge is huge in my breeding program because you have to know what’s there,” explains Vanessa. “Whatever genetic tests are available for issues that affect our breed, we will test for,” says Vanessa. “For me as a breeder to not test for things is unethical and stupid.” If there are no genetic tests available for a particular health issue then before breeding, a breeder will carefully look back in the line to see when and where the issue showed up. If it hasn’t shown up for a long period of time there is a good chance that the dogs will not pass it along.
Vanessa’s puppies are guaranteed for hips and anything that comes up within the first year. “I generally go beyond my guarantee because I feel responsible. I have a clause in my sales contract that says I will always either take a dog back or I will find a new home for them if they find they can’t keep the dog,” she says.
Vanessa is passionate about her breed and is very particular about who she allows to purchase her dogs. “I want somebody who has a plan for their dog. I want them to tell me why they want that breed of dog and why they think one of my dogs will fit in with their family,” she explains. “That tells me that they have done research on the breed and didn’t just see a picture.”
She also likes it when people come to her far in advance. “The red flag goes up when somebody says ‘I want a puppy now.’ Those are the people that buy on impulse and haven’t done their research,” says Vanessa.
She does temperament testing on her puppies so she can place the right puppy in the right home. “All my clients laugh because I tell them when they get a dog from me they also get me for life. It frightens some people but that’s how I am,” she says. “That’s why I have people who have come to me more than once for a dog. It’s because they believe in my program.”
Do you have any questions about purebred puppies? Reach out to our Panel of Experts today to get them answered.
Please note: The Kali’s Wish Foundation is not affiliated with Guardian Kennels.
photo credit: Yurikapustin, Shiloh Shepherd Dog Outdoors, via Wikipedia (license)
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