How to Choose an Anatolian Shepherd Puppy

By Stevee LaDuke

Instructions

Step 1:
Begin your search for an Anatolian Shepherd Dog by conducting extensive research. They are not a breed for everyone, as they can be very territorial and dominant and should only be owned by an experienced dog owner. Be sure you understand the ins and outs of a dominant breed before contacting breeders regarding a puppy. The Anatolian Shepherd Dog Club of America is an excellent resource for information regarding the breed.
Step 2:
Check into working dog lines and show dog lines. Working dog lines can be much more independent than other lines and might require a firmer hand. Show dog lines have been bred more for the show ring and less for flock guarding and can be a better solution for the first time Anatolian owner.
Step 3:
Make a list of all of the qualities you would like in your Anatolian Shepherd and breeder. Anatolian Shepherd Dogs should be checked for any health concerns such as hip dysplasia and bloat, so be sure that you note health clearances from breeders you might be interested in. Write down all of the good things you want in a dog and the bad things you do not, and take it with you when you visit breeders.
Step 4:
Contact breeders that you might be interested in getting a puppy from. You can ask them about their dogs and kennel, and they will most likely ask you a few screening questions to see if you might be an appropriate owner for one of their dogs. Set up a time to visit with breeders that you seem compatible with so that you can see the dogs and kennel in person.
Step 5:
Arrive at the breeder’s house five minutes or so early so that you can gather any last questions you might have. Be sure you bring your list with you so that you do not forget any important points that you wanted to discuss.
Step 6:
Introduce yourself upon meeting the breeder, and get to know her a bit. Building a stable relationship with your breeder is vital to future communications and will make purchasing your puppy a much smoother endeavor.
Step 7:
Visit with the dogs and get to know them. Let them sniff you and greet you at their own pace since Anatolians can be territorial with new people. Ask the breeder which dogs will be available, or which dogs will be bred for your potential litter.
Step 8:
Look into any titles or awards that the dogs have won. If you are looking to get a puppy for show, a dog from titled parents is an important factor in figuring dog dog’s future potential. You can also ask to see any health clearances or certificates at this time to be sure you are getting a healthy puppy.
Step 9:
Review and sign any required contracts or registration papers. Nearly every breeder has a set of paperwork that all new owners have to fill out, so do this completely and clear up any concerns you have before finalizing anything. Complete payment arrangements with the breeder at this time as well to avoid any future issues.
Step 10:
Transport your new Anatolian safely. Be sure to take a kennel with you, and kennel the dog on the ride home. Some dogs get carsick very easily, and restricting her movement in the car will make the ride easier on both of you.
Step 11:
Set an appointment for your new Anatolian to be seen by your vet within 72 hours of arriving home. Your vet will check your new dog over for any existing health concerns and will update his vaccinations and worming schedule during your appointment. Follow your vet’s instructions for your pup’s first few days home and enjoy your new Anatolian Shepherd Dog.

Tips & Warnings

Investigate any potential breeders carefully. You want to make sure you are getting a dog from healthy and proven lines, so knowing a breeder and her dogs is vital.
Do not buy a puppy on impulse. Anatolian Shepherds are not a dog for just anyone, so knowing the ins and outs of the breed is important to avoid trouble when you get your new dog home.

Resources

Anatolian Shepherd Dog Club of America

Photo/Video Credit

http://www.bigpawsonly.com

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