Puppy Buyer Education

🐾 German Shorthaired Pointer & Vizsla Blog

Welcome to the Nosam Kennels German Shorthaired Pointer and Vizsla blog, where we share practical information based on more than a decade of hands-on experience owning, training, hunting, breeding, and living with versatile bird dogs.

Explore articles about GSP and Vizsla puppies, training, health, breed characteristics, hunting and bird-dog development, dog sports, puppy raising, and everyday life with these active sporting breeds.

Whether you're researching your first GSP or Vizsla, raising a puppy, training a hunting dog, or looking for new ways to enjoy your dog, we aim to provide useful, straightforward information based on real experience.

The Myth of the Pick of the Litter

Pick of the litter in purebred dogs. Let's uncover this myth,

Sierra Combs

Feb 214 min read

How to Verify Dog OFA Results and Spot AI-Generated Fakes

When you’re looking to learn about a dog’s health, especially regarding genetic and orthopedic conditions, the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) results are a key resource. These results help breeders, owners, and veterinarians understand a dog’s risk for certain inherited diseases. But with the rise of AI technology, some people have started creating fake OFA results, which can mislead buyers and harm breeding programs. This post explains how to find authentic OFA resu

Sierra Combs

Feb 196 min read

Understanding Dog Titles: Decoding Letters before or after a dog's name.

Dog titles can often seem like a confusing language of their own, filled with abbreviations and classifications that might baffle even seasoned dog lovers. However, grasping these titles is essential for dog owners, breeders, and enthusiasts alike. In this post, we'll clarify some of the most common dog titles, including JH (Junior Hunter), SH (Senior Hunter), NAVHDA titles, and the differences between UKC (United Kennel Club) Champion and AKC (American Kennel Club) Champion

Sierra Combs

Sep 6, 20258 min read

Titles Tell the Truth: Why They Matter to Your Dog’s Breed

Nosam's Sharp Shootin Spyro with her SH Ribbon Why Titling Your Dog Helps the Breed—and Your Breeder As breeders, we put a lot of thought into every pairing—temperament, health, structure, drive, and purpose. But our efforts don’t end when the puppies go home. The legacy of each litter continues through you, the owner. One of the most impactful ways you can contribute to your dog’s breed—and to the breeder who entrusted you with that pup—is by earning titles with your dog. Ti

Sierra Combs

Jul 12, 20252 min read

Good Things Come to Those Who Wait: Why Ethical Breeders Use Puppy Wait Lists

Buying with Intention: Why Ethical Breeders Use Puppy Wait Lists If you’re ready to add a puppy to your family, it might be tempting to grab the first adorable face you see online. But when it comes to finding the right puppy — one that's healthy, well-matched to your lifestyle, and raised with intention — patience truly pays off. That’s where a puppy wait list comes in. A puppy wait list is a system responsible breeders use to match puppies with committed, well-prepared home

Sierra Combs

Jun 21, 20253 min read

High Drive Vs Arousal in Hunting dogs. The Off-Switch

Going over high drive vs Arousal in hunting dogs

Sierra Combs

Jan 24, 20255 min read

Exploring Safe Ways for Kids to Interact with Dogs: A Guide for Parents

Quick tips on safe ways for kids to interact with dogs

Sierra Combs

Aug 30, 20243 min read

Uncovering the Exercise Needs of Sporting Breed Dogs: How Much is Enough?

Exercise needs for sporting breeds.

Sierra Combs

Aug 2, 20243 min read

Tips for Socializing Your Puppy: Setting the Foundation for a Lifelong Companion

Are you a proud new puppy parent looking to provide the best possible start for your new puppy? Socialization is key to raising a well-adjusted and happy dog. In this post, we'll take you through some essential puppy socialization tips that will set the foundation for a lasting bond with your four-legged companion. Let's dive in! Why is Socialization Important? Socializing your puppy is crucial as it helps them grow into well-mannered and confident adult dogs. Exposing your

Sierra Combs

Jul 2, 20243 min read

AKC "Approved Breeder"-- There is no such thing!

The only entry qualification for AKC Marketplace is that puppies be AKC registrable. That's All! While AKC registration is important to determining purebred status it is nothing to health, structure, or quality. Let's look at this like a car! Is your car’s title important? Yes. However, a 1990s car that doesn't run and hasn't been started in over a decade most likely has a title just the same as a brand-new Jeep off the lot (or whatever your favorite car is). You get what I

Sierra Combs

May 20, 20247 min read

How to introduce a new dog into your multidog household?

Adding a new dog to the family is an exciting time, but it can also create stress for the other animals in the home. Set reasonable goals when you bring a new dog into your home. Knowing your older dog's background will help you manage what might happen. This should not be your current dog's first meeting with another dog. Preparation in advance is a must by letting your dog have interactions with dogs of various ages, sizes, temperaments, and breeds well before you ever dec

Sierra Combs

May 10, 20243 min read

Should I get a Male or a Female puppy?

What's the difference between male and female dogs.

Sierra Combs

May 1, 20245 min read

The best time to get a second puppy?

Puppies are so cute! I think we all agree on this. Adding a new puppy to your home is always tempting but are you ready? Adding a second puppy should always be a well-thought-out process. Let's explore the key factors that should influence your decision. You want to make sure this is the best choice for you and your current 4-legged family member. The age of your current dog: Is your current dog still too young to be fully trained? If they aren't fully trained do you struggl

Sierra Combs

Apr 19, 20245 min read

Top 10 Must have Items for your new puppy.

Before you bring home your new puppy and begin a lifetime of love and companionship together, there are a few things you'll need to prepare for your pup's arrival. We want to ensure our puppies thrive in their forever homes so we threw together a list of top items. Puppy buyers will be sent a link to our full shopping list. Check out the brand of food we use, toys, household supplies, and other resources below for giving your puppy the healthy and happy life they deserve!

Sierra Combs

Apr 10, 20245 min read