Hi all!
I am new here and this weekend I will be acquiring my very first Basset.
Having grown up with an aunt who bred and showed Bernese Mountain Dogs, I am well versed in the benefits of going to a reputable breeder to obtain a puppy. I have found a breeder- they do not breed as a rule and this is only their second litter ever HOWEVER they are being mentored by an experienced breeder, both parents have had their health checks done prior to breeding, both are from proven and titled stock and the pups have already had their eyes checked.
As this is a litter of 10 I will have a good number of puppies to choose from. All are excellent quality but I was wondering if, since I am new to the breed, you all would be willing to chime in on some of the important things you look for when selecting a pup. Things that a newbie might not think, or know, to look for.
My interest, other than having a canine companion, is to try tracking. I have done conformation ring until I am bored to tears and would like to foray off into some of the performance events. So "show quality" (usually referring to conformation ring) is not necessarily a big factor.
If there are those of you here who have done tracking with your Bassets- are there any traits you look for when you are choosing a tracking prospect pup?
Any advice, tips or help you may have are greatly appreciated.
Marie
I am new here and this weekend I will be acquiring my very first Basset.
Having grown up with an aunt who bred and showed Bernese Mountain Dogs, I am well versed in the benefits of going to a reputable breeder to obtain a puppy. I have found a breeder- they do not breed as a rule and this is only their second litter ever HOWEVER they are being mentored by an experienced breeder, both parents have had their health checks done prior to breeding, both are from proven and titled stock and the pups have already had their eyes checked.
As this is a litter of 10 I will have a good number of puppies to choose from. All are excellent quality but I was wondering if, since I am new to the breed, you all would be willing to chime in on some of the important things you look for when selecting a pup. Things that a newbie might not think, or know, to look for.
My interest, other than having a canine companion, is to try tracking. I have done conformation ring until I am bored to tears and would like to foray off into some of the performance events. So "show quality" (usually referring to conformation ring) is not necessarily a big factor.
If there are those of you here who have done tracking with your Bassets- are there any traits you look for when you are choosing a tracking prospect pup?
Any advice, tips or help you may have are greatly appreciated.
Marie
