Shelties

Question
Any suggestions for prospective sheltie owner.  Particularly what to look for when visiting someone with puppies for sale.

Answer
Hi Jack!

First, my apologies.  The Expert server wasn't working on Friday and Saturday when I tried to answer.

Second: great question!

What you need to do is find an ad in the paper.  Go to the house.  You want to see the mommy and all the puppies.  Do not buy if they won't show you the mommy.  This is to avoid puppy mills.

Ask if they have any references.

If the puppies are in a wire cage off the ground like a rabbit would be, that's bad.  You'll know if the mommy is taken care of if her fur is clean.  Expect it to fall out because birth is stressful.  

Ask to see any paperwork if the mommy has been tested for hip displaysia.  

If they insist on you getting the pups fixed that is likely the best sign of all!

Expect to pay $300 and up for a quality pup.  Good breeding saves a fortune in medical bills later so it's a small investment.

I know there is more, but those are the basics.

'sneezes
Dave