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So you think you want a Leonberger?
A Leo is a big commitment and a responsibility.
Hopefully your pup will grow into a healthy happy, lifelong
companion. The Leonberger has grown hugely in popularity and it is
no longer difficult to find a puppy. Give yourself time in deciding
whether the Leonberger is the right breed for you. Go and visit lots
of adult male and female Leonberger, preferably without a litter
being present. It is very hard to walk away from beautiful cuddly
babies. Write down a list of questions you want to ask and be
prepared to answer a list of questions too! Most of us like to know
that you are the right family to own a Leonberger.
Take time to question your own judgment. Is the size right? Dog or
bitch? Have you the time and patience? Can you afford the extra vet
fees that may occur? Is it a family commitment? Is anyone allergic
to hair? ... the list goes on and on!
Once you are sure your choice is right, then you will be ready to
look for your puppy.
This may entail going on a waiting list. This is a good bonding time
for you and the breeder and so much can be achieved if you both have
a good relationship. This also allows you time to visit the
prospective stud dog and to see the bitch in her own surroundings.
Make sure you are very happy with the temperament of both. Also ask
if you can visit any offspring or other siblings, this will help
enable you to see the type of Leo that you may get. Get a copy of
the pedigree and ask someone to go over it with you. Are there
restrictions of any kind? Will they be lifted if all criteria are
met? Ask about any health problems which may be in the lines. It is
advisable to have everything confirmed in writing to protect both
you and the breeder.
Make sure all current documents for health testing are up to date,
the required tests are hips and elbows, eyes. If you don't
understand the paperwork ask for a copy and take advice from your
vet. Some breeders character assess the parents as well as puppy
assessing the litter. This helps enable the breeder to try and match
the right puppy to the right home. Don't be upset if you are guided
to a certain puppy, the breeder spends many hours watching the
litter from the day it is born and will soon establish which one is
a little shy, which one is very bold, which one may need a firm hand
etc. A puppy born in a home environment, with the sounds of everyday
life, washing machines, hoovers, radios, televisions, children's
noises, etc will soon adapt to their new environment with little or
no problems. Support from your breeder should be ongoing throughout
your dogs life.
Last but not least, what price will you pay ? At the moment puppies
range in price from £800 to over £1000. Whatever price you pay will
not determine whether or not you have the next Crufts champion. A
£1,000 puppy should not be any better than a less expensive one. You
will love your puppy no matter what. Please feel free to email me
for any puppy advice -
just
click here.
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