[CircaRigel]

Acrolayli,
Not all breeders are like that. I went through a breeder because with a service dog, I wanted the best possible chance for success. I selected my breed and breeder VERY carefully. The breeder I chose really makes zero profit off her dogs. Everything she earns from the dogs goes straight into her dogs. All of her breeding stock have had full genetic testing. There are PennHip results going 13 generations back showing excellent results for all of them. All of her dogs undergo full temperament and physical testing, and extensive prenatal care. Every potential breeder is given a 24h heart monitor to rule out a genetic arrhythmia, and she even takes a 2 month leave from her job as a cardiac nurse in order to give the puppies her full attention 24/7 during their early growth stage until they are transferred to their prospective owners. I chose her due to my research, but I feel truly blessed to have found such a responsible breeder. Due to the extensive care in the health of both breeding dogs and puppies, I’ve been given a much higher chance of having a healthy dog who will be able to fulfill all of the service dog tasks I require over many years. I’ve not been disappointed at all. All of Galen’s vets are impressed with his physical conformation, his health, and his temperament. HE is a willing learner, and eager to help. In all, he is EXACTLY what I needed, especially as a first time service dog owner/trainer (although I do have some assistance from a professional organization). She even consulted with the trainers at the organization when having the puppies tested, to ensure I received the one most suited to my specific needs. Here’s a video of him the other week, demonstrating his retrieval skills… although he got rather enthusiastic and went on to bring me his bag of boots as well! Galen the Goofy Shiloh Shepherd Service Dog (in training) Demonstrates Vest Retrieval

It’s one of the more recent skills he’s truly mastered. Bear in mind, he IS still a puppy… an adolescent.

• This reply was modified 9 years, 10 months ago by CircaRigel.