Dutch Shepherd Forum

Hi, need other opinions or thoughts on this:
I am new to the DS and have been in touch over the months with a very reputable breeder in Utah to get one of her pups (hopefully) in Spring and hopefully one that has a lower drive (if that even exists ). Anyway, there is a possibility of a rescue 6-7 month male that I saw posted on FB (couresty of NADSR). He is currently in Fla at a foster home right now. He was found in a supermarket parking lot tied up with a chain and fishhooks - ugh - so horrible. I have made several inquiries about him and his personality and am waiting to hear back. I did get a response that someone will get in touch with me. So, finally, here is my question - for my first DS, do I go with a rescue or the reputable breeder? Do I get a pup to shape his formative years, or an unknown???
My problem with a rescue is that I do not know his beginnings and there could be underlying issues. My current 2yr female (non DS) rescue has/had some issues that my husband and I are addressing in training with her. She was adopted at 6 mo and some of her issues took a while to come out.

Any thoughts out there??
Sorry this was so long.

Barbara

Barbara,

Unfortunately, there is no easy answer to your question. A rescue is an unknown (not necessarily a problem child) but at an older age, you have a much better idea of the personality. A puppy is an unknown because they often don't show their true colors til a bit older, but you are dealing with a GREAT breeder who knows her stock very well. Honestly, I think that either way would be a good option. However, what you won't get out of a rescue is the health testing and guarantees that you will get with Ashlee. You also won't have the same support system when you run into a problem. So, that would be the only place I would tilt the scales.

Good luck in your decision.

Very well said, Christie.

I think a see a new pup in someone's life, though....

thanks so much for your input Christie and yes, I am excited about having a new pup in my life.....cannot wait!!

I think Christie said it best. I have one from top lines and one a rescue and I love them both and they are both excellent dogs. The best thing is for you and your husband to talk and weigh everything.

A rescue dog does not automatically mean a dog with problems or issues. Some are just victims of unfortunate circumstance. I have seen some incredible well behaved and trained dogs come through rescue. Some times, they might have had a rough start in life but don't really have issues, they just lack basic training and manners. Not saying they're all perfect, because without doubt there are some dogs in rescue that will need a lot of work and commitment, but some people seem to assume that if a dog is in rescue it automatically must be "broken". People give up great dogs for all sorts of reasons (some stupid and some justified and sad).

When deciding this question, you really should consider an individual rescue dog in the equation as opposed to all rescues in general, because yes some may mean more work then others, but if it is a nice adult they will require far less work then a brand new puppy.

I have also heard people say when I have this discussion that they want a puppy because that way the dog will bond much better with them then if they get a rescue, which is completely untrue. Some people who have adopted dogs from bad situations will tell you those dogs appreciate that much more when they end up in a good home.

Choochi wrote:
I have also heard people say when I have this discussion that they want a puppy because that way the dog will bond much better with them then if they get a rescue, which is completely untrue.

Good point, I got Thalie when she was 1.5 and we have an incredible bond.

A rescue which has suffered a lot with its previous owner can be very ''gratefu''l when coming into a warm and save surrounding where the new owner shows its care and commitent and giving positive attention to that dog.

First of all thanks to everyone who gave me their feeback on this subject. I am now trying to adopt this pup, so everyone keep your fingers crossed!! I have some pics of him, which I will post. He is really cute and his foster mom had only good things to say about him. 7 months, 55 lbs. I'm trying not to get attached, but how could you not? Too cute. BTW, his name is AALT.

Ooooooh--you're already in love. I'm so glad that you're in his life.

What else do I see in him? His facial bones remind me of pit?????

Keep us all posted on him!!!! I love those adopt stories!!! Yea!

ooooooooooohhhhhhhhh how cute !!!! Defiantly Pit. Im so happy for both of you !

Congrats on the hopeful adoption. I agree with the masses, there is more in the wood pile than Dutch Shepherd. But if he is a wonderful dog, then I am sure he will be a wonderful addition and just the love you are looking for.