Big Paws Only Dog Forums
BPO Puppy Forum => FAQs about puppies => : lookingfornewf October 29, 2007, 06:09:26 AM
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Well tomarrow I go to pick up my newfie pup. I have not visited the breeder before so hope everything checks out OK and I get to bring him home. I know I should have waited, researched, etc. I had to have my cat put to sleep unexpectedly in Sept and that left me with my lonely Jack Russell. The house seemed so empty with just one pet I couldn't seem to wait. I had thought for years now that a Newfie would be my next pet.
What are all the things I should check when I go pick him up. She has told me he has had his shots, micro chipped, wormed, parents hips ok'd, and comes with a 1 yr health guarantee, is CKC registered. She has told me what she feeds him. His grandmother lived to 14 1/2 which is amazing. Any help would be appreciated. Pictures will be posted of Clifford as soon as I can(always like the Clifford story books and my name is Emily like the girl in the books)
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Has she done any other genetic testings on parents?
Newfs have plenty of those :-\
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Thanks for responding. What tests should I ask about? I'd like to say if things don't check out I won't bring him home. However if I actually see him and hold him that probably is not possible. ::)
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Heart and eyes for sure. Cystinuria as well.
http://www.optigen.com/opt9_test_cystinuria.html
There are other newf owners here who can tell you more.
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Thanks, I forgot about the Cystinuria. :)
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Hey...I just want to play devil's advocate here...
It might be heartbreaking to go to that breeder's and fall in love with a little pup, but find out that they haven't done the proper genetic testing and have to leave...
But imagine the heartbreak of having the dog you've grown to love for a couple of years end up with a debilitating and expensive illness or genetic defect and watching them suffer needlessly.
I don't want to burst your puppy bubble! Truly I don't. I just want you to think of the alternative BEFORE you get there and get all dreamy eyed with a fluffy Newf butt in your arms!
Good luck!
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I second everything Nicole said!!! I have heard that these days (because of the poor breeding practices) many newfs die before 7 years of age. Most of them due to a heart problems and orthopedic issues.
I know that it is very hard to wait for a puppy but it is so worth it know that you will have a longlasting and healthy companion. :)
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I found this link about the most common health issues. You could call the breeder and ask her about past litters and parents.
http://www.bearadisenewfoundlands.com/healthissues.html
Good luck!
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Thanks, that is very helpful. I will go in with lots of good questions and will definately make sure to see the kennel. Hopefully all will go well when I go to bring Clifford home tomarrow. :)