I want that puppy!

I WAnt that puppy!
(impulse puppy buying)

When I share having an available puppy, I get messages saying “I want that puppy, and how much does it cost to ship to me?” 

These inquiries don’t ask any questions about the puppy, if the puppy has a calm temperament or will need a job. They don’t say what they would like to do with their puppy, or how active their family is, but rather just state “I want”. They don’t see if the puppy will be a good fit and the ‘right’ puppy for them and/or their family. This is a huge ‘red flag’ to us.

Questions we want to hear you ask before buying a puppy:

• Have the parents been DNA tested? (ALL of our parents are DNA tested)
• If close enough, Can you meet the parents? (We love to meet our prospective families)
• How big is this puppy expected to get? (Ours average 45-65lbs)
• Ask how puppies are raised. Are there special activities, and do they begin with ENS exercises, which are proven to help puppies for life?
• How do they socialize their puppies?
• What activity level will these puppies have? 
• Will your puppy need games and activities on a regular schedule? (We do recommend games, activities, and classes for best results)
• Will this fit into your lifestyle and family dynamics? 
• What deworming and vaccines will puppy receive?
• Does your breeder require a contract? 
• If you cannot keep your puppy, are you required to return your puppy to the breeder to re-home him/her? (We have a ‘no questions asked’ return policy. We will always accept them back) 
• What guarantee does the breeder offer for their puppy? 
• Does the breeder have a waiting list? How long is the wait? Some are a year or more. (Remember, if you are looking for a specific look and/or color, this may take longer)
• Does your breeder have an owner support group in place where you can interact with others, and make friendships, and find ideas and activities. (https://www.facebook.com/groups/windwhispersfarmtalk/)

The biggest thing when planning to buy a puppy is to build a relationship with the breeder you choose. Follow them. Watch their litters. 

Questions to think about while watching:

• Is there consistency? 
• Do you see photos with their dogs? 
• What activities do they do with them? 
• Do they interact with and exercise them daily? 
• Are the dogs groomed? Bright Eyed? Sparkle? 
  
• Are they passionate about the breed they are raising? ​

Most good breeders have a waiting list. Also, a reputable breeder will assist you on picking the best puppy for your lifestyle and family. We’re with them every day from the moment they are born. 

A thought:
When looking at a Collie, you are looking at a ‘Herding’ dog. 

What does a herding dog do?
They are movers and gatherers of livestock, from goats and sheep to cattle and more. Their job is to direct where the flock or herd go in direction. Collies are extremely intelligent, energetic, and quick to learn.

Common traits of herding breeds:

• Active and alert (at times even anxious)
• Agile
• Higher Energy
• Gathers other dogs/animals/children/family
• Very well focused and Intelligent

Tips for Success with being a ‘Family Pet’:

• Begin Training Classes
• Continue Puppy Socialization (SO important)
• Go on Daily walks 
• Find activities to do with your pet (local breed club, Barn hunt, Hiking, Community dog walking, Scent classes etc. (There are so many)
• Puzzles and Games, Snufflemats, Ball/Muffin Pan, for rainy/ or stormy days (brain stimulation)
• A tired puppy is the best puppy.

*Remember - The “right fit” is for a Collie’s lifetime. It’s always Important.

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