In only 4 more short weeks, these little ones will be ready to go to their new homes. I am going to try my best not to get emotional, but I have a feeling it will be a major Kleenex moment.
Since their arrival, I have had numerous inquiries from potential puppy buyers; some would make great owners, others (IMO)...not right now. As a breeder, one of my "jobs" is to make sure that each and every one of these puppies go to homes that are best suited for them. Please understand that the Rottweiler breed is my passion; my dogs, and this litter (and any future litters) are very, very special to me. A lot of blood, sweat and tears have gone into Lynyrd and Tori; the decision to do this breeding was not taken lightly.
John Q Public assumes that buying a puppy is much like buying a car; not so. There are many, many things to consider before taking on the responsibility of a Rottweiler puppy (or any breed for that matter). Things such as function ("what the breed was bred to do"), size at adulthood, grooming, trainability level (yes, it varies from breed to breed), etc.
There are 160+ breeds/varieties of breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club . With that many to choose from, there is a breed suited for darn near every home. Each breed recognized by the AKC has a Parent Club here in the United States. The Parent Club sets and owns the breed standard for their breed and has tons of information on the history, function, temperament, conformation ("looks"), trainability, known health issues, etc.
For potential puppy owners, I cannot stress enough the importance of knowing what your chosen breed was bred to do. There are traits inherent to each breed; such traits may make one breed perfect for apartment dwellers, while others need more space, time and commitment.
One of the best sources of information for any breed is the breed's Parent Club website. For the Rottweiler, it is The American Rottweiler Club. If you haven't already, I urge you to go there.
The Rottweiler is a multi-function breed. In the early days of their existence, the Rottweiler was used as a "drover dog", primarily for cattle. They would herd and guard the cattle from predators and thieves and also protect their owners and homesteads. The Rottweiler was also used by local butchers to pull their carts as they went about daily business. Because of the breed's protective instincts, a special collar was placed around their neck to keep the money safe from would-be robbers.
The Rottweiler is happiest when it has a job to do. They thrive on human attention and interaction, and can make their own "fun" if left to their own devices. Because of their loyal and protective nature, the Rottweiler is NOT a breed for everyone. Obedience training is a *must*, beginning in early puppyhood and continuing throughout maturity.
The commitment level is high for Rottweiler owners; especially during the formative puppy stages. If you cannot commit to lots of early socialization and training, then this breed is probably not the best fit for you. If dog hair in the home bothers you, then this breed is not right for you; Rottweilers shed A LOT. Bottom line, do YOUR HOMEWORK. Talk to responsible breeders, read information from REPUTABLE sources, go to a dog show, obedience trial, or herding trial etc, and talk with the owners and handlers.
The absolute worst thing in the world is to buy a puppy strictly on the "cuteness" factor, or on a spur-of-the-moment decision. All puppies are cute, but they don't stay little for long, especially Rottweilers. The dog you get will be commited to you and your family. Are you willing to give that same commitment back to the dog?
I love this breed. I love my dogs and these puppies. My wish for them is to live in homes where they are appreciated and loved.
Happy Birthday, guys.
No comments:
Post a Comment