Things to consider before buying or adopting a show dog
Sure, show dogs can make great pets. On the other paw, caring for a show dog, retired or not, isnt exactly a walk in the dog park. Heres what you need to keep in mind before buying or adopting a show dog.
Browse any show dog blog, and youll likely find eye-witness reports of show dogs who were trained with negative reinforcement methods. Studies show negative reinforcement training increases stress in dogs and affects their health in the long term. While most breeders treat their show dogs like family pets and even royalty, not all breeders are created equal. Check out our article on finding a reputable breeder for more info.
A long history of inbreeding has narrowed the gene pool and increased the risk of birth defects in purebred dogs. Purebred pups are more likely to develop conditions like dilated cardiomyopathy, cataracts, and epilepsy. In addition to the upfront costs of buying a show dog, pet insurance and veterinary care can get expensive fast.
When it comes to selling their show-quality puppies and rehoming their retired show dogs, breeders are highly selective. Trustworthy breeders will want to learn about you and tour your home. Many breeders expect to retain breeding rights to the dog, while some even require co-ownership. If youre planning to show the dog, youll likely need to sign a show contract with your breeder. If you have no plans to enter your dog in competitions, opt for a pet-quality dog instead.
Beagles and Coonhounds participating in field trials are trained to follow the scent of prey animals like rabbits and raccoons. These scent work trials dont require dogs to actually hunt the game, and no animals are harmed. Still, if you plan to adopt a dog trained in scent work, never let them off-leash, especially in a nature reserve or similar space. Clever Beagles can also escape from a fence in pursuit of prey, so always supervise them when outdoors.
Most often, a dog like this will be sold for less than a young puppy and will have had excellent preventive veterinary care.
The breeder has spent a lot of time with her, so she should be able to let you know what, if any, behavioral issues she may have. You also may have the chance to meet her mother and maybe her father to see their size and temperament.
I am considering purchasing a 2-year-old Airedale terrier from a breeder. She was intended to be a show dog, but as she matured, her conformation wasnt as good as the breeder would like. Is it a good idea to get a dog that has been a show dog? Will she be a good family pet?
Many breeders keep what they think is the “pick of the litter,” then begin entering it in puppy matches, but may decide the dog doesnt meet the breed standard as they had hoped. They also may decide the dog isnt fit for their breeding program either. At that point, some breeders will keep the dog as a pet and others will try to sell the dog.
If you have your heart set on a particular breed and cant locate one through a rescue group or shelter, then contacting breeders is another possibility.Advertisement
Do Retired Breeding Dogs Make Good Pets?
Retired breeding dogs always make great pets (same with retired show dogs). Like all dog searches, it depends on the dog whether they will be right for you. A retired breeding dog will be a beautiful example of the breed but may have issues with behavior, or have been mistreated in the past. Make sure you have time to train your dog and to give them a loving forever home.
Dogs have personalities based on how their owners treat them, research finds | GMA
While many people choose to pick the sport apart there are just as many people who want to learn more.
Before the show ring and all the glitz and glamour that’s rumored, there first needs to be a dog.