We are pleased that you are joining the ranks of the many happy
Doberman owners, and here offer a few tips on how to select
the right puppy. I hope these guidelines will be of help to you
in your search for the "right" puppy, who will grow
to meet your expectations. As a Breeder, I let my puppies "choose"
their new families.
If a 20 lb., 3 month old Doberman does not like you now, the odds
are an 80lb., 2 year old will not like you later. Should my puppy
choose you as his or her "partner" he'll do anything
to keep YOU happy.
The best source for buying a purebred Doberman is a
breeder who has had years of experience and cares about the dogs
that represent their kennel. I will honor my guarantee and can
save the newcomer from making many costly mistakes. My success
is constantly being tested in the show ring and I strive to upgrade
my stock to conform to the breed standard. With your new puppy
comes a friend/breeder; someone you call when you need help, information
or just want to talk about what cute little "Gypsy"
did last week. Reputable Breeders are the artists who strive for
perfection in what we create. Most people want a Doberman simply
because they like his looks and want a pet, a companion and a
guard. Then they become attached to the dog, meet other people
who have Dobes, learn about shows, perhaps win ribbons, and are
on their way to a lifetime of fun in the sport of showing dogs.
As a breeder I provide the first series of puppy shots
and administer a worm preventative. You will receive a written
guarantee that the puppy is in excellent health at the time the
puppy goes home. I will be happy to answer any questions that
you might have concerning feeding, housebreaking, etc. It is not
unusual for a young puppy to have diarrhea the first or second
nights that he comes to your home. The change in food, environment
and living style may cause some unsettled stomachs. Normal temperature
in a pup is 101.5. Don't be alarmed if he runs up to 102 if he's
excited; however, much higher than that and you should consult
your vet.
It is extremely important that you continue the puppy series and
get all of the necessary shots. I have enclosed a shot record
book to keep track of his vaccinations.
The purchase of a purebred, registered puppy is a very important
decision that should be considered carefully. Is everyone in the
family willing to accept the responsibilities of raising and training
a puppy to become a happy, obedient part of the family? A puppy
is something that should be brought into a home that is PREPARED
to care for and welcome him or her into the family.
If at all possible, pick the puppy yourself and if you have children
bring them with you. I encourage the entire family to get involved
in choosing your new family member. You are encouraged to make
an appointment as we are busy and have many visitors. When you
arrive you are encouraged to look around and ask questions. I
will also be asking questions because I am concerned about the
well-being of my puppies even after they have gone to their "approved"
homes. Dobermans are not the "right" dog for everyone;
therefore, do not be offended if you do not leave with a puppy.
Should your family enjoy the company of a pup from Leilani Dobermans
you are encouraged to take the puppy to a Veterinarian of your
choice to verify his good health. We periodically touch base with
our friends to see how our "offspring" are getting along.
Your Doberman puppy can be considered an investment even if he
is intended only for a pet and companion. Breeding is an important
factor which determines temperament, type, and working ability
and should be considered in the purchase of a pet, show, working
or breeding dog. You will find that Dobermans are habit-forming.
The amazing versatility of the breed is unsurpassed in the dog
world. Having a Doberman opens a whole new world of activities
for you. They enjoy showing, obedience, back packing, crosscountry,
or just being a couch potato.
In your search for
the "right" dog, you may have noticed that the prices
vary widely. Newspaper ads may show one litter selling at $150.00
each and one just below at $800.00 each. Though both are AKC registered,
you will see from later discussion of health, personality and
structural faults, that AKC "papers" are no indication
of the quality of the pup or his trueness to the Doberman Pinscher
Standard. In this area a well-bred "pet" quality puppy
may start at $1,500.00. Show quality puppies start at $2,500.00
and go up from there. These prices are not really exorbitant when
divided over the lifespan of the dog and weighed against veterinary
expenses on poorly bred pups.
YOU DO HAVE THE RIGHT TO EXPECT CERTAIN THINGS FROM
YOUR BREEDER.
First, the litter should be kept in clean surroundings with
adequate room to play.
Second, they should appear well fed but not too fat or lean.
Third, the eyes should be clean with no sign of discharge.
Fourth, the coat should shine and be free from bald spots.
Note: It is not unusual to see the mother lose her coat
after whelp.
I have found that there are two critical periods of socialization
in a pup's life, namely 7-12 weeks and 12-16 weeks, in which a
puppy requires human socialization and interaction. If they don't
get it between 7-12 weeks, but do between 12-16 weeks, they'll
minimally adjust to one owner but will fear everyone else. If
they get it between 12-16 weeks (when discipline and human leadership
is established) the puppies will be friendly, but not easily trained.
If they don't get proper socialization during either period, they'll
fear all people, including their owner. We have also discovered
a further period of "resocialization" is required between
the ages of 12 to 18 months.
Temperament testing and observation plays a key role in the placement
of puppies at Leilani Acres. We meticulously test and retest each
puppy to evaluate what type of home is proper for each individual
puppy. Socialization and training, no matter how minimal, begins
at birth. In past years, this has proven to produce well-adjusted
puppies, and satisfied owners.
A few final words of advice may be in order. First, never settle
for less because of time, money or other considerations. Your
pup may be a part of your family for ten to fifteen years and
compromises now will effect you and/or your puppy for a long time
to come. If you are not able to find what you want immediately,
a few weeks or months of patience will usually be rewarding. In
fact, getting a pup from some of the better litters usually requires
a wait - as many are sold in advance. So be choosy, look around
and see what is available by attending one of the many shows.
Talk with various Breeders about required and expected standards
and be wary of faults that are bred into the breed
by the "backyard" breeders.
It will pay off in the future!!
The Official
Breed Standard of the Doberman Pinscher
Leilani Dobermans
Our Philosophy
Our Family
Animal Assisted Therapy
For More Information Contact:
Karen Mounts
P.O. Box 775
Terrell, TX 75160
(972) 524-6522
or
e-mail Leilani Dobermans