Quote:
Originally Posted by glencorgi
Initial price of the puppy is the cheapest part of the deal of going into dog ownership, so I'm sure we're missing something. One problem is we just do so much of this stuff without thinking, it is hard sometimes to itemize.
Debbie
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I honestly had to sit back and think about it for awhile. You are right, after awhile, some of it is second nature and you don't even think about it. The life time commitment after the purchase is the most expensive part.
I do have a question about the choice of where to get your pup--have you contacted the breeder? How much has she grilled you about getting the pup? If she is more then willing to let you purchase a pup without much more then how you are going to pay for it, is this really a person that you want to buy a dog from? Have you asked for health clearances on the parents? References from other people who have bought dogs from her? Has this person asked if your mom is okay with it and asked to talk to her?
The reason I say this is granted, your mom hasn't said yes yet, but you also need to prove to your mom that you know what you are getting yourself into and that the breeder is backing you up and your decision. I placed a pup in a home with a 14 yr old girl this summer. Most of my communication was with her, but I also spent many nights on the phone with the parents making sure the commitment was there with the entire family. I asked for references on the young lady, the family and even talked to one of her teachers, all before I even said yes, I would put her on the list for a puppy.
Just another thing to think about and one more time---where is your cost for obedience classes?????