You, of course, have the obvious responsibility to provide a safe environment for the puppy. Proper food, shelter, clean water and necessary vet care are basic necessities. There are more responsibilities, however, many more.

Making your puppy a welcome member of your household and community is a must. Teach the basic "house manners" , sit, stay, down and come, even if you don't wish to exhibit in obedience competition. Many books and classes are available to teach you how to train your dog. A dog untrained and not housebroken is virtually impossible to place in a new home should the need ever present itself.

As a buyer you have an obligation to be loyal to your breeder, to communicate your questions and concerns, to be honest and open to suggestions and, yes, even criticisms. Your breeder has the best interest of your puppy and the breed, as a whole, at heart. She/he has the experience to see the bigger picture. Listen to her/him.

You have an obligation to abide by any contract/agreement relating to the showing, breeding, training, neutering or sale of your puppy. If, for any reason, you cannot honor your contract/agreement, it is incumbent upon you to notify your breeder right away. Many breeders will request or require that you return the puppy or make an alternate arrangement with you.

Whether or not you intend to breed your pup you have an obligation to investigate the genetic problems of your breed and participate in any genetic testing that is advised. These results are important to your breeder and to the breed as a whole.

It is also important that you abide by the Code of Ethics set forth by the Parent Club for your breed.

Finally, and perhaps the most difficult act of being a responsible dog owner, is to recognize and accept the duty of ending a life that no long has quality. As hard as it is to euthanize a beloved pet, it is your final responsibility.

Zippy Cooper LenLear Springers
Copyright ©1997-2006 Joyce (Zippy) Cooper