Momma Aggression ?

pokerdiva · #1 06-23-2009, 07:40 AM

Ok, I went to one breeder house and really liked one of the puppies. The dam and sire were on site and both seemed nice enough but I was told that the dam snipped at the Verizon guy when he walked past the welping box to fix something. The breeder said that she has never had any aggression before just is real protective of her pups. They do have 3 children in the home ages 4,7,9 and they didnt seem afraid at all or afraid to carry puppies around etc. Anyways is this something that I should be concerned with? Could I end up with a aggressive pup? Secondly, one of the puppies eyes had discharge I noticed (only 1 of the litter) but I have read that the pups should be clear of this, is this cause for concern? Thanks, sorry so long.

ehayes21 · #2 06-23-2009, 12:24 PM

Mom's can be protective - it doesn't necessarily mean it will transfer over to the pups. I would be more concerned about health testing and why they bred the litter.

Did you see holter results of both parents?
OFA certificates for their hips?
Thyroid?

If she didn't have these simple things done then walk away and find yourself a responsible breeder.

Have a look in these threads:

Health Testing Your Breeder Should Do

Backyard Breeding: The Consequences

**gmacleod** · #3 06-23-2009, 02:57 PM

I think you're right to be cautious. Problem is, it's hard to know if there was a good reason for her to become protective (reasonably perceived threat), or not. Yes, a shy or snappish dog very likely WOULD pass those traits on to offspring (temperament is as inheritable as looks and other genetic factors) - and depending on what it was combined with (sire's temperament), could produce something very unfortunate.

It may be a little unfair to judge on this basis alone, but the fact that the sire is on site also sends up a little red flag. Most often that suggests a backyard breeder who has mated the two dogs readily available, rather than seeking out the best match for an evaluated bitch. It isn't always the case - but very very frequently it is. You're the one in the best position to determine (i.e. ask) the reasons behind this particular pairing though

As above, it is also critical to see BOTH parents' test results for the screening for cardiomyopathy, aortic stenosis, hip dysplasia and hypothyroidism before making any decisions about a puppy.