[VomBlack]

In case that's confusing what I mean is.. is it ever possible to find a breeder and want to be put on a waiting list for like.. 2-3 years from now? I know that leaves a lot of "what ifs" open for a breeder trying to plan litters, but I also understand some breeders have pretty impressive waiting lists.

I've been seriously considering looking into a good working line GSD breeder, but I want to work with Odin more first and gain more knowledge and experience in dog sports before adding another working dog to the crew. Plus, with Noire being almost 9 i'm sure she's going to require more vet care as she ages and I want to make sure i'll be able to provide the best of everything for all of my dogs should I get a puppy.

I've been reading a lot on different lines and kennels and everything, and I figure if I give myself at least 2, maybe 3 years to prepare that gives me time to hopefully meet more dogs or speak with enough breeders to give me a better idea of what I want (and maybe what I don't want).

Should I wait to contact breeders until the time comes? Or is it common for people to inquire about a puppy this far ahead of when they're actually planning on bringing one home?

 

[Liesje]

For me it's not so much a matter of time but what is being bred. I might be OK waiting 2 years for one litter but not have much interest in any others even from the same breeder.

 

[elisabeth_00117]

I'm about 1-2 years off, kind of in the same boat as you are. Have a young (18 months) male who is just starting to mature and we are both just starting in the whole "sport world" thing (about 7 months into schH training). I am also just starting to get a preference in what I like and don't like in terms of traits for training and am just starting to recognize what lines seem to bring the traits I like and which ones bring the ones I don't, this is just by simply watching dog work, meeting new dogs, researching the lines via the internet, club members, breeders, knowledgable dog owners, handlers, TD's, etc..

I have list of about 10 kennels, both in the states and here in Canada that I am watching, but in reality only 3-4 of those kennels will I contact when the time gets closer, say a year or so away from when I think I am ready.

I don't mind waiting longer than my allotted time for the right breeding/puppy, so this will help in my search as I am not in a rush.

I would think that contacting breeders now and asking questions about their dogs, goals, bloodlines, training/titles/experience would only aid you in your research. I would just let them know up front that you are still a ways off from purchasing but would like to gather as much information as you can within that time. Reputable breeders would more than likely appreciate the thoughtfulness, research and patience you are showing as a potential owner.