Older Dogs Available

Depending our your circumstances, an 8week old puppy maybe not be your best choice, and there are other great options if you don't want to go through all the "baby stages".

Breeders may have older puppies or young dogs available or dogs that have retired from competition earlier than expected.

Breeders will often keep 2 puppies from a litter to "run on" i.e. to let them develop a more before deciding which puppy they will keep for themselves - the other puppy then becomes available, a dog that might not enjoy showing, and very occasionally a older (3-5yrs) retired show dog who would enjoy being a family dog.

These should be fit and healthy, have had they current vaccinations, etc and been well socialized. It's my opinion that any dog you consider should be available on a trial basis. After all its not like shoes , which if you decide after 2 weeks you don't like you can simply not wear.

Matching up personality and lifestyles is hugely important, no matter how pretty you think a dog is, you want one that blends in with your life and enriches it, so you cant imagine being with out him/her.

I get asked about bonding. A dog's attachment to its new family does not depend on age! The SPCA provides a good example how dogs quickly bond with new families.

In my experience I've always looked for the right home for each dog and matched up personality and lifestyle, I'm never in any hurray as these dogs are my beloved pets and the only reason for re-homing is to offer them a better life.