Thinking of adopting a corgi from a breeder.

[Ikith]

Recently I've been looking at adopting a corgi from a beeder as my first pet. They seem like awesome dogs and I've been around three of them and they have been friendly (However that may be attributed to their training).

I plan to bring it from Canada (I've done the research and it seems like it will be fine as long as they are in good health and vaccinated) into the US however I'm betting the US customs site downplays it quite a bit. So I'm looking for personal experience on that if anyone has any.

The reason I'm posting this thread is to get feedback on the dogs general attitude and anything thats worth contributing. I plan to get him/her professionally trained. Thanks for every piece of advice.

[archibaldcrane]

In b4 Lbelle.

[Ikith]

In b4 Lbelle.

If Lbelle gives great advice then I don't mind.

[Moss]

most of this forum has a raging hard-on for corgis, I hope you get worthwhile advice

[Falaras]

most of this forum has a raging hard-on for corgis, I hope you get worthwhile advice

Because Corgis are the best.

[Ksandra]

I can only give minor advice as I don't own a corgi, but want one someday. With that said, the big thing is to research the breeder you get it from. I won't do the soapbox ting and demand you get a shelter dog, because as much as I'd like that, I know how hard it is to go for a mutt when you have a particular breed in mind. With that said, make sure you go and see the breeder's surroundings (and again research) before taking the animal. (bonus points for finding a corgi rescue) Avoid puppy mills or anything that seems close to one at all costs. Not only is that morally wrong, those puppies tend to have a huge series of issues and it'll probably cost you thousands later on.

Take a look at his papers too. Sadly, most pure breeds are severely inbred. My parent's poodle's grandfather on one side is also his father. Needless to say the more inbred they are the more health risks involved (he has diabetes), and they tend to be a little more "crazy". Sometimes this is unavoidable, but if your able to pick and choose from various breeders try to look at their history.

Also make sure that if you get a pure breed that they give you a copy of the papers right when you buy it. Don't settle for a "I'll send it later" or a paper half filled out saying "I'll give the info later" or anything like that. The papers aren't just for show, they are also there to protect you in case your dog ever bites someone or it gets stolen (value of the dog).

Added to that make sure they give you all copies of any records of shots they have been given, and make sure you take it to a vet within six days of purchase to make sure it's healthy and caught up on all it's shot (don't take the breeder's word for it). Bonus if you can convince the breeder to let you take the dog for a checkup and if something is wrong you can return the dog (with the 6 day limit). If they are willing to do that make sure you get it in writing.


[edit] make sure as well you get shit in writing (like if you pay cash get a reciept).

Hope that helps and sorry if this is stuff you already knew.

Oh and about personality here ya go:

[Ragnus]

Pretty much everything ya need to know here

http://www.yourpurebredpuppy.com/rev...lshcorgis.html


Just don't name him/her Ein. >_<

[TheTaru]

I got my corgi from this Amish family that had a farm in Ohio. It didn't look like they overbred or anything, and the dogs seemed pretty happy.

I've taken her to training classes and stuff since then, and she'll listen to me most of the time, but still gets in fights a lot with my other two dogs. I have about two acres of land (plenty of room for three dogs to play around) but the corgi seems to always want to "herd" the other two. She'll always jump on/bite my 11-year-old dog (that isn't much bigger than a corgi) that has a crippled leg and doesn't understand that it's not okay, no matter how many times I punish her.

Great around strangers and is never aggressive with people, just not-so-great with other dogs. I could just be bad with discipline, but that's been my overall experience.

[The Stig]

Queen Elizabeth has 4 =) if this helps you sway any decision making. Plus it'll be awesome to announce to people while out and about "it's a corgi. queen of england has 4 of them!" or something XD

[Amelya]

Why do you want to get one from Canada? There should be plenty in the US to choose from.

Definitely find a breeder that does health testing, at the very minimum they should have an OFA or PennHIP evaluation on their hips. DM (degenerative myelopathy) is another serious health issue that can be tested for, but I think something like 60% of Pems are at risk so not all breeders are on that bandwagon. Most reputable breeders will guarantee the health of the puppy for at least a year and will require that you spay or neuter your pet. I also would also suggest buying from a breeder that shows or works their dog in some other venue (herding, agility, etc).

Tons of pure bred dogs are going to be line bred, some of the nicest dogs out there have the same dog or bitch in their pedigree multiple times. My cardi has the same dog as a grandfather and a great grandfather. It's really not that big of a deal if the breeder is responsible about it. If they're just leaving a bunch of related dogs in a pen to see what happens then by all means run the other way.

Sometimes a breeder will hold the papers until you provide proof of a spay or neuter. Other times the breeder won't register the litter until all the puppies are sold and the owners have decided on registered names, and if they send it in by snail mail it could take quite a while. Some breeders are reeeeeally behind when it comes to technology. And AKC papers are not going to do shit if your dog bites someone lol.

Obviously I love corgis since I own two, but they are definitely not for everyone. These are ~30 lb. dogs that were bred to push around 1000 lb. cattle. Training is a must or you will be miserable. They are usually very smart but strong willed. Pems in particular are known for their "what's in it for me" attitude. The cardigans are usually more laid back. They bark. They shed like CRAZY. Both of mine are absolutely wonderful with people, and my pem loves every dog he's ever met, but my cardi is a little wary of some big dogs but always friendly. Honestly I think most people would be much happier with a cardigan but very few people have them.

You can find listings of breeders in your area here:

www.pwcca.org Pems
http://www.cardigancorgis.com/BreederDirectory.asp Cardigans

P.S. get a cardigan.

[Acturus]

Adopting? or Buying?

[Plow]

Adopting? or Buying?

this is actually kind of a big question, if an actual breeder is not charging you for the dog it means it's inbred most likely


I'll do a mini-soapbox:

Purebred is virtually never worth the money, supporting most "professional breeders" tends to mean fucking over more dogs, and there are literally hundreds of thousands of homeless dogs in the U.S. alone that would make you just as happy and them even more happy.

[Ksandra]

And AKC papers are not going to do shit if your dog bites someone lol.

Granted it's people's court so take it with a grain of salt, but a lot of the cases involve dog bites/attacks. Often she asks for the papers if there's a dispute on whether to dog is a mixed breed because states do have laws against certain breeds. I've seen a lot where the person that got pit insists the dog is part pit bull, which is illegal in some states. Now obviously a purebred corgi won't look anything like a pitbull, but it's always good to have it just in case and should be a rule of thumb for anyone getting any kind of dog.

[Ikith]

It would be buying but I put as adopting since it sounds nicer than "I'm going out and buying a dog" at least to me. Along the lines of Canada that would be the closest breeder to me as I live up in the Bellingham/Nooksack area of Washington State (Around 5 mins away from the border) however I'm thing that if I am going to buy a dog the 2 hour drive down to the second closest might be worth it.

I understand the thing behind not giving me the papers until spayed or neutered (They don't want you to buy then start breeding yourself) however that may be an issue since its two hours away and I don't want to get screwed with papers so would there be any other way around this like getting them certified some other way (Though if there is a one year guarantee this would void it)?

How much do checkups cost at vets normally (Ballpark number) the reason I ask is so I can plan my finances properly?

Oh and what are some good questions to ask the breeder over the phone and some telltale signs of bad breeding when I do see the place?

[Acturus]

If I may ask, why is it you decided to buy a dog instead of rescuing one?

http://corgi.rescueme.org/

[Ikith]

If I may ask, why is it you decided to buy a dog instead of rescuing one?

http://corgi.rescueme.org/

The fact that there aren't any corgis in WA in need of rescue.

Not to sound like a dick but I've already checked a lot of sites to rescue one. I'm also set on this specific breed.

[Acturus]

The fact that there aren't any corgis in WA in need of rescue.

Not to sound like a dick but I've already checked a lot of sites to rescue one. I'm also set on this specific breed.

Okay, that's perfectly fine. I appreciate you giving it a shot. It just seemed odd to me how far you are willing to go to purchase one based on your first couple of posts.

[Amelya]

Usually the breeder will give you the papers when you pick up the puppy, but there are exceptions. If you don't trust the person to mail you paperwork then I wouldn't buy a dog from them.

You'd be best off calling your local vet and asking about prices as it can really vary a lot depending on area. Here a regular office visit is $45, but then you have to add on the cost of vaccinations, fecals, worming, etc. It can be costly. Puppies need booster shots for vaccinations so in the beginning you'll be at the vet every couple of weeks and the costs do add up.

This is from a breeder's website regarding what questions to ask and what to watch out for, it's better than anything I could write.

Spoiler: show

Finding a Responsible Breeder
Because responsible breeders do not do this for money, they are very willing to help a good home find the right puppy. Even if this means the puppy they have available at that time is not the right puppy for that home. Good reputable breeders keep in mind other good reputable breeders who may have puppies available and never hesitate in giving out other breeders names to help in your search.

The following questions are just a guide to follow in your search for a responsible breeder. Responsible breeders are not out to make a quick buck, they take time both before and after they breed a litter to ensure that the puppies are healthy, good representatives of their breed. Good breeders are happy to answer questions and usually take much more time than you thought possible. Here are a few questions (and the type of answer you can expect) to ask a breeder:

1. Can you tell me some of the qualities of the breed? And also some of the negative traits?

Responsible breeders will be happy to tell you all about their dogs. In fact they may tell you much more than you ever wanted to know. They will also be able to tell you the negative characteristics-of-the breed. Good breeders know that the only dog breed that is perfect for everyone is a stuffed one. Responsible breeders are looking for lifetime matches between puppy and prospective home, and will tell you if their puppies do not fit your lifestyle, BEWARE OF THE BREEDER WHO TELLS YOU THEIR PUPPIES ARE ALL PERFECT!

2. Are the parents of the puppy tested for any genetic defects?

Many breeds are tested for Hip/Elbow Dysplasia and Eye problems. Some breeders also test for Thyroid problems and Von Wildebrand's (a bleeding disorder). A responsible breeder will talk openly about the problems in their line and will be glad to show you proof of their dogs testing. All purebred dogs should be OFA'd (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) and certified free of hip dysplasia. As well all breeds should be CERF’d (certified free of ocular (eye) disorders prior to being bred.) BEWARE OF THE BREEDER WHO TELLS YOU THEIR DOGS DON’T HAVE TROUBLE SEEING OR WALKING, SO THEY DON’T NEED TO HAVE THESE TESTS DONE.

3. Do you guarantee the puppy for these problems? If so, until what age?

Responsible breeders guarantee against these disorders. They should give you a written guarantee that specifies what you are to do if your puppy develops one of these disorders. Most breeders will replace the puppy or refund some of your purchase price. Good breeders guarantee their puppies into adulthood against these problems. Be sure to read your contract before you buy your puppy...be sure that you agree with the conditions of your contract BEWARE THE BREEDER WHO ONLY GUARANTEES THEIR PUPPIES FOR 24 HOURS. RARELY DO ANY PROBLEMS SHOW UP IN THIS SHORT TIME.

4. Have the puppies had any shots? Have they been wormed?

Responsible breeders ensure that their puppies are protected against normal puppy diseases before they leave their home. Puppies should all be wormed. A good breeder will give you documentation showing when your puppy was wormed (and with what) and what vaccinations the puppy has received. They will also tell you when the next vaccine is due. BEWARE THE BREEDER WHO SAYS Yes, the puppies have had all their shots they need…..BUT GIVES YOU NOTHING IN WRITlNG.

5. Do you belong to a local dog club? Do you belong to a regional/national specialty club?

In the dog world, membership means commitment...Commitment to the breed; commitment to the community, commitment to dogs in general. Most dog club have a Code of Ethics that their members agree to adhere to. The Code of Ethics is a minimum standard only. Ask to see a copy of their Code of Ethics. And as you read it, ask yourself if this breeder is following the Standards. BEWARE THE BREEDER WHO SAYS DOG CLUBS DON’T MATTER AND CRITICIZES MEMBERS OF THESE CLUB. REMEMBER THIS BREEDER HAS NOT AGREED TO FOLLOW ANY MINIMUM STANDARDS.

6. Do you require pets to be spayed or neutered?

Responsible breeders are concerned about the problem of dog and cat overpopulation. They require that all their puppies going into pet homes be spayed or neutered. They also require that you contact them if you are no longer to keep your puppy (even if it is 10 years old). They feel responsible for their puppies for the entire life of the dog. BEWARE THE BREEDER WHO WANTS TO SELL YOU A PAIR SO YOU CAN HAVE A FEW “BATCHES” YOURSELF. To these people, puppies are a cash crop. They show no responsibility to the dog or the breed once the dog is out the door, and they don’t care what happens to it.

7. Can you tell me about the puppy’s parents and grandparents?

Responsible breeders can tell you why they choose the parents to be bred. They know that a puppy is more than the sum of its parents. They have done a tremendous amount of work researching not only the parent’s traits but also the grandparents and great-grandparents. Truly committed breeders will also be able to show you pictures of dogs in your puppies pedigree. BEWARE THE BREEDER WITH A “BREEDING PAIR” WHO ARE THE SAME BREED AND HAVE “NICE PERSONALITIES”. THIS BREEDER KNOWS NOTHING ABOUT THE HIDDEN TRAITS THAT MOM AND DAD CARRY.

8. Are the puppies raised indoors?

Responsible breeders know that puppies raised indoors make the best pets. They house train faster and are already familiar with noises such as telephones, TVs, washing machines, pots and pans and vacuum cleaners. They have seen people, been handled and are normally more socialized than puppies raised outdoors. BEWARE THE BREEDER WHO WILL NOT LET YOU SEE WHERE THE PUPPIES WERE RAISED. ALSO BEWARE THE BREEDER WHO DOES NOT SHOW YOU THE PUPPIES LITTERMATES OR MOTHER.

9. Have the puppies had any training?

Responsible breeders will normally start house training their puppies. They should tell you how far along the puppy is and what you should expect of it. They will usually crate train the puppies. This is a wonderful tool to be used in the puppy's transition from its old home to its new.

10. Do you give any literature/handouts?

Responsible breeders give out information on house training, crate training, teething, grooming, feeding, health and anything else they can get their hands on. They want your puppy to be a welcome member of your household and try to give you the tools necessary. They realize that buying a puppy is a 12-16 year commitment and not something to be taken lightly. The responsible breeder is also available by phone to help you with anything that may arise. They expect pictures of your puppy as it grows and occasional reports on how it is doing. BEWARE THE BREEDER WHO FEELS ALL THIS IS NOT NECESSARY BECAUSE AFTER ALL THEY ARE JUST BREEDING PETS. The responsible breeder feels that all dogs (show dog or pet) deserve to be free of hereditary defects and live a long healthy life with its chosen family.

I hope these questions help you in searching for the responsible breeder and your perfect puppy.

As you said there aren't a ton of corgis in rescue, and very very rarely any puppies. Most breeders have a clause written into their purchase agreement that if for any reason you can no longer care for the dog, it comes back to them.

I'm assuming you're set on a pembroke, but I seriously recommend at least looking into the cardigans. I know they're not as "cute" and don't have the bunny butt, but they are excellent dogs (and come in purdy colors!). Honestly I don't know if I will ever get another pem after having a cardi. There are some amazing breeders in Oregon and Washington too I believe.

[Ikith]

Usually the breeder will give you the papers when you pick up the puppy, but there are exceptions. If you don't trust the person to mail you paperwork then I wouldn't buy a dog from them.

You'd be best off calling your local vet and asking about prices as it can really vary a lot depending on area. Here a regular office visit is $45, but then you have to add on the cost of vaccinations, fecals, worming, etc. It can be costly. Puppies need booster shots for vaccinations so in the beginning you'll be at the vet every couple of weeks and the costs do add up.

This is from a breeder's website regarding what questions to ask and what to watch out for, it's better than anything I could write.

Spoiler: show

Finding a Responsible Breeder
Because responsible breeders do not do this for money, they are very willing to help a good home find the right puppy. Even if this means the puppy they have available at that time is not the right puppy for that home. Good reputable breeders keep in mind other good reputable breeders who may have puppies available and never hesitate in giving out other breeders names to help in your search.

The following questions are just a guide to follow in your search for a responsible breeder. Responsible breeders are not out to make a quick buck, they take time both before and after they breed a litter to ensure that the puppies are healthy, good representatives of their breed. Good breeders are happy to answer questions and usually take much more time than you thought possible. Here are a few questions (and the type of answer you can expect) to ask a breeder:

1. Can you tell me some of the qualities of the breed? And also some of the negative traits?

Responsible breeders will be happy to tell you all about their dogs. In fact they may tell you much more than you ever wanted to know. They will also be able to tell you the negative characteristics-of-the breed. Good breeders know that the only dog breed that is perfect for everyone is a stuffed one. Responsible breeders are looking for lifetime matches between puppy and prospective home, and will tell you if their puppies do not fit your lifestyle, BEWARE OF THE BREEDER WHO TELLS YOU THEIR PUPPIES ARE ALL PERFECT!

2. Are the parents of the puppy tested for any genetic defects?

Many breeds are tested for Hip/Elbow Dysplasia and Eye problems. Some breeders also test for Thyroid problems and Von Wildebrand's (a bleeding disorder). A responsible breeder will talk openly about the problems in their line and will be glad to show you proof of their dogs testing. All purebred dogs should be OFA'd (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) and certified free of hip dysplasia. As well all breeds should be CERF’d (certified free of ocular (eye) disorders prior to being bred.) BEWARE OF THE BREEDER WHO TELLS YOU THEIR DOGS DON’T HAVE TROUBLE SEEING OR WALKING, SO THEY DON’T NEED TO HAVE THESE TESTS DONE.

3. Do you guarantee the puppy for these problems? If so, until what age?

Responsible breeders guarantee against these disorders. They should give you a written guarantee that specifies what you are to do if your puppy develops one of these disorders. Most breeders will replace the puppy or refund some of your purchase price. Good breeders guarantee their puppies into adulthood against these problems. Be sure to read your contract before you buy your puppy...be sure that you agree with the conditions of your contract BEWARE THE BREEDER WHO ONLY GUARANTEES THEIR PUPPIES FOR 24 HOURS. RARELY DO ANY PROBLEMS SHOW UP IN THIS SHORT TIME.

4. Have the puppies had any shots? Have they been wormed?

Responsible breeders ensure that their puppies are protected against normal puppy diseases before they leave their home. Puppies should all be wormed. A good breeder will give you documentation showing when your puppy was wormed (and with what) and what vaccinations the puppy has received. They will also tell you when the next vaccine is due. BEWARE THE BREEDER WHO SAYS Yes, the puppies have had all their shots they need…..BUT GIVES YOU NOTHING IN WRITlNG.

5. Do you belong to a local dog club? Do you belong to a regional/national specialty club?

In the dog world, membership means commitment...Commitment to the breed; commitment to the community, commitment to dogs in general. Most dog club have a Code of Ethics that their members agree to adhere to. The Code of Ethics is a minimum standard only. Ask to see a copy of their Code of Ethics. And as you read it, ask yourself if this breeder is following the Standards. BEWARE THE BREEDER WHO SAYS DOG CLUBS DON’T MATTER AND CRITICIZES MEMBERS OF THESE CLUB. REMEMBER THIS BREEDER HAS NOT AGREED TO FOLLOW ANY MINIMUM STANDARDS.

6. Do you require pets to be spayed or neutered?

Responsible breeders are concerned about the problem of dog and cat overpopulation. They require that all their puppies going into pet homes be spayed or neutered. They also require that you contact them if you are no longer to keep your puppy (even if it is 10 years old). They feel responsible for their puppies for the entire life of the dog. BEWARE THE BREEDER WHO WANTS TO SELL YOU A PAIR SO YOU CAN HAVE A FEW “BATCHES” YOURSELF. To these people, puppies are a cash crop. They show no responsibility to the dog or the breed once the dog is out the door, and they don’t care what happens to it.

7. Can you tell me about the puppy’s parents and grandparents?

Responsible breeders can tell you why they choose the parents to be bred. They know that a puppy is more than the sum of its parents. They have done a tremendous amount of work researching not only the parent’s traits but also the grandparents and great-grandparents. Truly committed breeders will also be able to show you pictures of dogs in your puppies pedigree. BEWARE THE BREEDER WITH A “BREEDING PAIR” WHO ARE THE SAME BREED AND HAVE “NICE PERSONALITIES”. THIS BREEDER KNOWS NOTHING ABOUT THE HIDDEN TRAITS THAT MOM AND DAD CARRY.

8. Are the puppies raised indoors?

Responsible breeders know that puppies raised indoors make the best pets. They house train faster and are already familiar with noises such as telephones, TVs, washing machines, pots and pans and vacuum cleaners. They have seen people, been handled and are normally more socialized than puppies raised outdoors. BEWARE THE BREEDER WHO WILL NOT LET YOU SEE WHERE THE PUPPIES WERE RAISED. ALSO BEWARE THE BREEDER WHO DOES NOT SHOW YOU THE PUPPIES LITTERMATES OR MOTHER.

9. Have the puppies had any training?

Responsible breeders will normally start house training their puppies. They should tell you how far along the puppy is and what you should expect of it. They will usually crate train the puppies. This is a wonderful tool to be used in the puppy's transition from its old home to its new.

10. Do you give any literature/handouts?

Responsible breeders give out information on house training, crate training, teething, grooming, feeding, health and anything else they can get their hands on. They want your puppy to be a welcome member of your household and try to give you the tools necessary. They realize that buying a puppy is a 12-16 year commitment and not something to be taken lightly. The responsible breeder is also available by phone to help you with anything that may arise. They expect pictures of your puppy as it grows and occasional reports on how it is doing. BEWARE THE BREEDER WHO FEELS ALL THIS IS NOT NECESSARY BECAUSE AFTER ALL THEY ARE JUST BREEDING PETS. The responsible breeder feels that all dogs (show dog or pet) deserve to be free of hereditary defects and live a long healthy life with its chosen family.

I hope these questions help you in searching for the responsible breeder and your perfect puppy.

As you said there aren't a ton of corgis in rescue, and very very rarely any puppies. Most breeders have a clause written into their purchase agreement that if for any reason you can no longer care for the dog, it comes back to them.

I'm assuming you're set on a pembroke, but I seriously recommend at least looking into the cardigans. I know they're not as "cute" and don't have the bunny butt, but they are excellent dogs (and come in purdy colors!). Honestly I don't know if I will ever get another pem after having a cardi. There are some amazing breeders in Oregon and Washington too I believe.

This is awesome information.

So I've given four breeders (all two hours away) a call and left them a message (None of them answered) so hopefully I will get a call back later tonight.

[archibaldcrane]

It would be buying but I put as adopting since it sounds nicer than "I'm going out and buying a dog" at least to me.

lol