by: Rita Rail

Many years ago, I also admired dogs and cats in store showcases but was strongly advised that it was a hit or miss situation if the animals were healthy. There really is no way of knowing this as I have been repeatedly told that they come from puppy mills. That is really why the price is so much cheaper than a reputable breeder. A good buy from a breeder is a dog classified as a “pet”. These are not SHOW dog quality. They are sold to the public as a dog who is healthy according to his vet, as they are all vet-checked for their first needles. The ears must be in a certain place, the nose the exact length, the hair must show the markings, colours of hair if not a one colour. The dog is also put through his paces to determine proper co-ordination in stance and conformation. Puppy mill dogs are not assessed in this manner. Actually, the people who breed these dogs, breed for money and spend as little as possible in time and money caring for them. Your puppy looks very nice in his photo, I do not see anything wrong with his nose. That may be just like us, (many different ones) even among brothers and sisters. His hair is the same as my Emily’s, very fluffy, and I have a photo of her that I can classify as a human adolescent stage. She sure looked funny. It is your choice if you wish to take a chance, Perhaps it will not develop any future problems and perhaps it will, You will have to decide. Take care. RR.