Exactly what is the pick of the litter? Most people imply that it is the
best puppy. Best for whom? Best for what? There are dogs better suited
for particular things, but that would depend on who the dog is going to.
and what their needs are.
Some people think they need to see the entire litter of pups in order to
pick out a good dog, we have found this is a misconception. In any one
litter, the majority of the pups are comparable. In each litter there is
usually a highly energetic dog, a more reserved dog, and the rest fall in
between. The term pick of the litter is a common phrase among people,
we would be wise to eliminate it from our vocabulary.
We have seen the last pup go to its new home and turn out to be the very
best in the litter, and we have seen what we thought to be the best pup
turn out to be just another good dog.
The term runt refers to a sickly and abnormally undersized puppy. Few
litters have a true runt. Within two years the litter mates ( given proper
care ) are within pounds of each other. Based on logic alone there is
always going to be the largest pup in the litter and the smallest, yet this
changes as the puppies grow into adults. Our dogs are very consistent.
The females will be in the 75 pound range, the males in the 95 pound
range.
So how should you pick your puppy?
Put away the book that tells you how to pick a puppy
Put aside the notion that bigger is better
Sit down
Really look at the litter
Notice puppies that are trying to get your attention ( there is something
to be said for chemistry )
Listen to your breeder when he tells you about specific personalities
Follow your heart
Take your time ( never ever rush )
Ask questions
Do you have the last pick? RELAX. If you like mom you will probably
like her puppies. If you have had the luxury of meeting the father and
you like him too, so much the better. After all these puppies will be
similar to their parents.
If you are the owner of the last pick puppy , here is the scientific
process by which those before you have selected their puppy.
IT WAS THE BIGGEST
IT WAS THE SMALLEST
IT WAS THE LIGHTEST
IT WAS THE DARKEST
IT HAD THE SWEETEST FACE
IT HAD THE BIGGER HEAD
IT WAS THE MOST ACTIVE
IT WAS THE LEAST ACTIVE
IT HAD THE BIGGEST FEET
IT HAD THE SHORTEST COAT
IT HAD THE LONGEST COAT
ITS EARS WERE LONGER/SHORTER
IT CAME TO ITS NAME
IT RETRIEVED A FEATHER
IT DIDN'T CHEW THEIR SHOES
IT DID CHEW THEIR SHOES
RELAX HAVE FUN AND ENJOY THE DAY.
After all you are bringing home a friend and companion
that will add joy to your life.
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