I wish I had brought my camera along on our adventure today! We met with our local breeder who introduced us to just some of her babies, two 13-year olds, one 10-year old, one 6-year old, and a 4 month old puppy. There were five more outside! The three 4-month olds weighed 48 - 62 pounds! [Yikes!] The dogs were extremely friendly- definitely gentle giants. We were told they love their naps, empty milk jugs (don't buy fancy toys!), getting scratches, and being held. Hundred pound lap dogs?! OH YES!
The breeder happens to be the acting president of the Mile High Great Pyrenees Club. What an odd coincidence! We lucked out! She is extremely knowledgable and gave us a wealth of information. She's been breeding Pyrs for decades and knows those dogs like the back of her hand! While Chihuahuas are known for their small tracheas and bad knees, Pyrs are known for their hip dysplasia; she told us about the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals website. The breeder advised us to thoroughly check out both pup's parents using the aforementioned website for any hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and cardiac disease. She reassured us that if we run into any type of problems, even if we don't get a pup from her, she'd be available for any and all questions. What a sweetheart! One problem she noted that all new Pyr owners call her about, was that all males during 9 - 12 months shed all their hair and decide not to eat. Why?? Some type of imbalance in the pancreas occurs and temporarily stops producing enzymes while the pups are maturing. Regardless, all breeds have their individual health issues. Matt chose this breed based on their obvious size, mellow temperament, and longevity. After meeting with all the dogs, we came to the realization that we definitely picked the right breed for us.
Turns out we just missed out on her last pup from the previous litter by 9 days...... but we always say, "If it's meant to be, it will be." Strangely, things often don't follow our intended plans, but they always work out for the best for us. The breeder estimates the next proposed litter to be born in the summer and ready for new homes in the fall, but may be breeding a second dog in the next couple of weeks. Right now, we're aiming at a new pup in seven to nine months; that's like prepping for a newborn! Definitely not a rash decision here! We've taken the right steps by choosing a knowledgable breeder we like and we're more than willing to wait. This will give us time to save up some extra cash, acclimate Starlet to meeting more dogs, and help us maintain our 90 pound weight limit by our apartment complex!
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