Picking a Puppy

German Shorthair Pup

Sarah loves puppies. Of course, who doesn’t. These were a litter of pups at Rooster Valley Pheasants. Here are some ideas when picking a puppy: When choosing the litter, look more at the parents than the puppies. Look at the pedigree, but almost more importantly for the average hunter, talk to the owner about how he hunts the parents. Better yet, talk to some of his hunting partners about his dogs, as they are less biased. Best yet, go hunting with him a time or two. If you are wanting a puppy right now this is not practical, but if you are doing your homework a year or two out, it is possible.

When picking the individual puppy, here are some recommendations: visit often and observe all of the puppies. With only one visit, you may catch one in a sleepy mood and another well rested and revved up. Over multiple vistis you will get a better feel for all the individuals. The breeder is likely spending lots of time with them, so ask them about individual traits. Wait until the puppies are six weeks old or older to do some simple puppy tests. Younger than that and they aren’t consistent.

1.) Watch how the puppy interacts with its siblings and try to determine where it fits in the social order. You can often tell the ends of the spectrum, but I find it difficult to break it down from there. You are looking for a puppy in the middle, one that is confident, but will give up some control.

2.) Take a puppy out of sight from the others and place it on the grass and walk 5-10 yards away, get down on your knees, pat the ground and call the puppy to you and see if it comes. You are looking for a friendly social puppy that seeks your company.

3.) While away from the others observe the puppy as it investigates a new place. You are looking for an interested, animated, confident pup.

4.) Gently roll the puppy on its back and pin it to the ground and hold it and watch its reaction. You are looking for a puppy that will struggle and show some independance, but not fight you forever showing total independance.

5.) Clap your hands around the puppies and watch their reactions.

6.) Finally, hold the pup in air with one hand around its chest/belly and watch its reaction. You are looking to avoid a fear reaction.

Overall, what I look for, is a puppy that exibits confidence, enthusiasm and an interest in life. Also a pup that seems to like my attention and seeks my company. I also try to avoid puppies that demonstrate fear and those that seem too head strong or independent. Describe to the breeder your training experience, what you really want in a puppy and what your plans are for the pup and he usually help in the decision.

These ideas came from Richard Wolters “Game Dog” book and from “The Art of Raising a Puppy” by the Monks of New Skete. I highly recommend both books for new puppy owners. 

Pointer Puppy


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