What The Prospective Owner Should Know:
The majority of responsible breeders have waiting lists. The responsible breeder does not breed to supply a market, and does not hand over a puppy simply in exchange for the asking price. Most will have a contract to be signed by the puppy buyer.
Expect many questions from the breeder about your accommodations, lifestyle, expectations, etc. Do your homework - is this really the breed for you?
It takes more time and effort to obtain a puppy from a responsible breeder, and it is well worth it! There are unscrupulous breeders only too happy to take your money in exchange for poorly-bred dogs, with no questions asked - and once the check clears, you're on your own.
Be aware that Irish Wolfhounds are expensive to purchase and to maintain. They require a good amount of exercise and CANNOT be allowed to roam at large. Be aware of breed-related problems such as bone cancer, heart disease, bloat, anesthesia risk, Von Willebrands Disease.
Visit the breeder. Look for a clean, safe environment. The puppies and adults should be healthy and happy and well-cared-for. You should be able to see and spend time with the puppies' mother. Be suspicious of her absence and excuses as to why she is not there. Likewise, ask to see the sire. He may not be owned by the breeder - in that case, you should expect the breeder to have pictures, pedigree and other information on him. Ask about the background of the litter, including temperament and health concerns.
Responsible breeders do not place IW puppies earlier than 10 weeks of age.
The Responsible Breeder:
Will have all records in order, and provide health information with each puppy - dates of vaccinations, names of the vaccines used, worming regimen, dates for the next veterinary visit, and so on.
Will provide a signed AKC registration slip (or a signed letter stating that such a slip is forthcoming) and pedigree.
Will provide the buyer with feeding and care instructions, and will always be a support system for you and welcome your questions at any time.
Does not sell puppies with "puppy-back" requirements or other arrangements that require you to breed the dog.
Will take back or help place any IW he or she sells, anytime in its lifetime.
Will ask a prospective IW buyer a LOT of questions!
Also read:
"Purchasing An Irish Wolfhound
Puppy - First, Find a Responsible Breeder"
And what are they REALLY saying in those puppy-for-sale want ads? Maybe not what you think ... "IWs in The Want Ads"
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