Finding the right dog can feel overwhelming. With so many breeds and breeders out there, questions often arise about the breeding programs behind these beloved breeds.
As breeders of Vizslas, German Shorthaired Pointers, and Bracco Italianos, we understand that potential owners want to know as much as possible about their future companions. Below, we tackle the top questions we frequently receive about our breeding program.
1. What is the breeding philosophy behind your program?
Our breeding philosophy focuses on health, temperament, and strict adherence to established breed standards both working and structure. Responsible breeding means we carefully study each breed's lineage and specific traits. We perform comprehensive health screenings and prove our dogs in the field as hunting dogs to help ensure puppies inherit the best qualities from their parents.
For instance, we routinely conduct tests for conditions like hip dysplasia, and various hereditary illnesses, screening every dog that enters our breeding program.
This rigorous process helps us reduce the risk of health issues in puppies.
Our parent dogs are all held to a working standard and we expect them to pass at least an AKC JH level test showing they have the desire and trainability to do what the breed was bred for..Hunting.
We are also dedicated to early socialization and training. By exposing puppies to different environments and stimuli, we create well-rounded dogs that are excellent in sports but as loving family members.
2. How do you ensure the health of your puppies?
The health of our puppies is our foremost concern. We maintain a thorough health program for our breeding dogs. This includes annual vet check-ups, up-to-date vaccinations, and comprehensive genetic testing for breed-specific issues. Screening for common health concerns minimizes the possibility of hereditary problems in our puppies.
Once born, our puppies thrive in a nurturing environment. They receive balanced nutrition, engage in play, and experience social interactions with people and other animals. Each puppy also undergoes a detailed health examination and receives vaccinations before heading to their new homes, ensuring they are robust and healthy.
3. What kind of environment do you raise your puppies in?
A nurturing environment is essential for raising healthy and happy puppies. Our facility offers ample space for exploration both indoors and outdoors. We maintain clean and safe conditions where puppies can play, learn, and interact with each other and humans. Our kennel areas are sanitized daily.
Our breeding dogs are treated like family; they enjoy daily exercise around our 50-acre farm, stimulating playtime, and consistent training sessions on obedience and hunting
. For example, each puppy is introduced to various sounds, smells, and people, which helps them adjust emotionally and acquire skills before they join their new families.
4. What can new owners do to prepare for a puppy?
Preparation is key to welcoming a puppy into your home. First, new owners should research the specific needs and characteristics of Vizslas, German Shorthaired Pointers, and Bracco Italianos, as each breed has unique traits. For example, Vizslas are known for their high energy and require about 60 minutes of exercise daily while Braccos are still quite active but tend to be less active than the other two breeds. The Vizsla is a more sensitive breed than the GSP and doesn't take correction as well as a GSP therefore taking more time to compete in upper-level sports. These are all things you need to determine about each breed to narrow down what is best for your home. Then from there, you should narrow down x,y,x expectations you have for a new puppy. Are you planning to hunt? Is there even the slightest possibility that you may enter dog sports later and if so which sports?
Creating a safe and inviting space at home is also crucial. It is important to acquire essentials like nutritious food, engaging toys, a cozy bed, and a sturdy crate. Setting aside time for training and socialization is vital once your puppy arrives. Early experiences significantly shape a dog's behavior, and committing to proper training from day one can lead to a well-behaved dog.
Prepare to take your puppy to visit your vet within 3 days of their arrival home to ensure that your health guarantee is kept valid.
5. What support do you offer after the puppy goes home?
Our responsibility to our puppies extends well beyond the initial sale. We offer lifetime support for puppy families, encouraging open communication. New owners can reach out with any questions or concerns related to training, health, or general care.
Additionally, we provide valuable resources including training tips, nutrition advice, and information about pet insurance. Fostering a relationship with our puppy families is important; it ensures the well-being of our dogs and nurtures a supportive community where owners can share their experiences and advice.
6. How do I get a puppy?
All of our buyers go through a screening process. We want to ensure you have done your research to prepare for the type of puppy you wish to take home. Not only should you have narrowed down by breed but you should also have an idea of what you need in a dog to fit your lifestyle. All buyers will need to complete a Nosam Puppy application.
Next, you will be required to submit a deposit to secure your place on the waiting list. This deposit serves as a financial commitment to Nosam, demonstrating your genuine interest in acquiring a puppy from us. This ensures that you are not simultaneously on multiple waiting lists, showing your sincere intention to proceed with the purchase. The deposit acts as a safeguard for the seller in case of withdrawal, preventing situations where we may have turned away other potential buyers under the assumption that a litter is already spoken for, only to discover later that you opted for a different puppy from another breeder.
Finally, to receive your health guarantee, you must submit our contract. We do not proceed with placing a puppy until the contract is signed. We consider it essential to document our commitments to each other in writing to prevent any uncertainties in the future. Therefore, the contract may be somewhat extensive. All purchasers are obligated to complete an online form when joining our waiting list and sign a physical copy upon collection. This documentation will outline expectations, health guarantees, and additional details.
All good things come to those who wait
Patience can be challenging, but it's important to remember that each puppy is unique and not interchangeable. Breeders have their specific criteria for breeding, such as size, personality, and working ability. Therefore, what one breeder considers a "perfect puppy" may differ from another breeder's perspective.
Be prepared to wait for a puppy. It is highly unlikely to wait for less than a couple of months; four to six months is typical. I have waited for a year a few times; even breeders cannot simply choose puppies at will. We all need to wait and be matched with the puppies by their breeder. We cannot always predict when heat cycles or breedings will occur. We do not possess magical abilities to instantly create the ideal puppy for you. Even if you are fortunate enough to be placed on a waiting list right after the dam is bred. The gestation period for puppies is 63-65 days, and they need to be at least 8 weeks old before they can be separated from their mother and litter mates.
Wrapping Up
The world of dog breeding can seem complex, but we hope to clarify our breeding program through these top frequently asked questions. Choosing a dog is about finding a lifelong companion. With our commitment to health, temperament, and ongoing support, we strive to provide exceptional Vizslas, German Shorthaired Pointers, and Bracco Italianos that will thrive in loving homes.
As you start your journey to find your next family companion, we encourage you to reach out with any questions about our breeding program or the breeds we specialize in. We are here to help and excited for you to meet your new companion!
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