|
I am a big advocate of puppy buyers researching and purchasing from a reputable breeder, as opposed to any other source. A Breeder Referral list is available from the Mastiff Club Of America. |
|
|
Family companions
Pet vs show puppies: Not every single puppy from every one of my litters is show quality, but EVERY one of them is pet quality. I have no problem selling a "show potential" puppy to a family who has no intention of showing or breeding, but will provide a loving lifelong home. I do show my dogs and we do well in the ring. I feel confident that my puppies going to show homes are excellent examples of the breed and will represent the Mastiff standard well. As all of my dogs are house dogs and a part of our family, I also cherish pet homes, where my puppies will be first-class champions in the hearts of their families. Puppy's first night home No baths! An 8 week old puppy is very much a baby and will be scared, having just been taken from her littermates and both moms. Please give her time to adjust and settle in, and get to know you and her new home. Training, socializing, CGC Housetraining: I hear quite often my puppies come practically housebroken. Indeed I start the groundwork, but it is up to the new owner to continue with the responsibility. Use a crate! If you hate crates use an x-pen or block off an area in your house small enough for the puppy to consider her "den", she will refrain from messing in this space. When you are not able to pay attention to her put her there. Give her frequent potty breaks; immediately after taking her out of her crate, a few minutes after eating or drinking, after playing, anytime she looks like she's searching for something (most likely it's a place to potty) and just periodically through out the day. Remember how small her bladder is and stay on top of it. Always praise her when she goes potty outside. If she does have an accident in the house quickly grab the nearest newspaper or magazine, roll it up as fast as you can, and smartly bap yourself on the head. - You weren't paying enough attention! Seriously, a Mastiff puppy wants nothing more then to please you. Accidents will happen, but working diligently and being clear about what you expect of her will speed the housetraining process, and make both of you happier! A Mastiff's high desire to please carries over to other areas of training, and working with him and teaching him are wonderful ways to form a close relationship. As your puppy learns his manners he realizes that he's making you happy, and all is right with his world.  Socialization is extremely important for a giant guardian breed. Begin right away - take your puppy everywhere you possibly can, making sure he has positive experiences with strange people, friendly dogs, children, new sights and sounds, ect. When you have a friendly, well-trained companion, the next step is to make your puppy a Canine Good Citizen! Any dog - regardless of limited or full registration, can gain a CGC title. For more information, including what is tested for, go to the AKC's CGC page. Teaching your Mastiff to greet people politely Tips from v! Guarding Mastiffs are naturally protective, not suitable for attack or formal guard dog training! Their size and image alone are enough to intimidate, coupled with the fact that most Mastiffs will run to the door hackles raised and barking, when someone knocks. They can also look quite ferocious behind a fence. An adult, well-adjusted and bonded Mastiff will defend his home and family. Please allow your Mastiff to develop his natural instincts and don't expect a puppy to be a guard dog.
|
|
      |
|
|
