FOX SHADOW

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NEWS FLASH!! NEWS FLASH!! NEWS FLASH!!

Please be advised that due to the popularity of this breed there are unscrupulous breeders cashing in at your expense. I will give some examples of when and where not to buy a puppy.

1. Any place that is dirty - Seems obvious but a lot of people feel they must rescue that poor pupy. CHA-CHING!! Another sale - the 'bad breder' says hmmm that was easy lets do it again and again. So you see by buying the puppy you perpetuate these types of breeders.

2. If the 'breeder' tells you that the parents don't live with them.HMMM how could a puppy live without the mother? Easy this person is probably a broker. A broker is someone that buys puppies (usually from puppy mills) and brings them home for resale. They are NO DIFFERENT than a pet shop. The only difference is they aren't regulated by the state.

3. Doesn't have a pedigree or any information on the parents. If you talk to 'breeders' that tell you Mini Aussies don't have pedigrees THEY ARE WRONG. Not only do they have pedigrees there are several registries for them!

Below are reasons why not to patronize pet shops. I will also show you how puppy mills keep their livestock. I will warn you some scenes might be graphic and might horrify you.

Please click on these favorite sites ( WARNING these aren't the prettiest sites to view):
HUA - Hearts United for Animals

Puppymills : What can you do?

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Signs of a reputable breeder

1. They interview you and ask questions about previous pets you have owned and what your interests are in this breed.

2. They sell their pet quality puppies on a spay & neuter agreement. They don't promote pet quality breedings to pet quality dogs. This world is over-populated with dogs already.

3. They will take the puppy back anytime during its life. Anyone can say they will but ask to have it in writing.

4. They will know what health issues are familar to the breed and openly discuss any they have had in the past.

5. They will guarantee their puppies for health issues in writing.

6. They will want to see you take the dog to obedience school. They will be there for behavior questions.

7, They will have dogs from previous litters for you to meet. This lets you see the results of their breedings.

8. They will expain what toys, food, dishes, you will need.

9. They will offer training tips to use for success with your new puppy.

10. A good breeder will keep in touch throughout the puppy's life.

Guidelines and reputable breeders here:

National Stock Dog Registry - The Parent Registry for Aussies

MASCA - Miniature Australian Shepherd Club of America

AKC Link - For Standard Aussies

Dog Owner's Guide: AKC inspections

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