As an AKC Breeder of Merit, I perform the following tests as recommended by the AKC for GSPs Hip Evaluation Elbow Evaluation Cardiac Exam Ophthalmologist Evaluation Cone Degeneration (CD) - DNA Test In addition to the tests recommended by the AKC, I also screen for NCL 8, Von Willebrand's (VWD), Acral Mutilation Syndrome (AMS) and Degenerative Myelopathy (DM). I am currently in the process of certifying all of my dogs in the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) Certification program. A dog achieves CHIC Certification if it has been screened for every disease recommended by the parent club for that breed and those results are publicly available in the database. Because Embark DNA is part of this testing, this helps me to select appropriate parent combinations for breedings.

My puppies are very special to me and I want to make sure each one goes to the right home. Because of this, I require a phone conversation with all potential puppy buyers, in order to get to know you a little better and determine if you and one of my puppies would be a good match. In order to set up a call, you can contact me through my contact page, where you will find my puppy buyer questionnaire. When the puppies are 5-6 weeks old we can set up a visit up at my ranch if you want to meet them and mom (and dad, if on-site) before they are ready to go home. When they are ready to go home after 8 weeks of age, I prefer that buyers come pick them up. If that is not possible, I can meet a buyer at a local airport, but only if the puppy will be flown straight home with the new parents, with the puppy riding in the cabin under the seat in a carrier, NOT in cargo. I do not ship puppies with puppy transporters. I have had puppy parents drive from as far away as Alaska to pick up their new puppy! It is so important that puppies are safe and secure, especially when they are so young and just learning about the world.

No, I do not ship puppies. I prefer that buyers come pick them up at my ranch. If that is not possible, I can meet a buyer at a local airport, but only if the puppy will be flown straight home with the new parents, with the puppy riding in the cabin under the seat in a carrier, NOT in cargo. I do not ship puppies with puppy transporters. I have had puppy parents drive from as far away as Alaska to pick up their new puppy! It is so important that puppies are safe and secure, especially when they are so young and just learning about the world.

I choose my puppy families very carefully to ensure a successful match and a forever home. However, sometimes unforeseen life events happen, and I will always take any PVR pup back into my home and/or find a new loving home, at any stage of the pup's life. Here is one example where one of my puppy's owner passed away and I was able to coordinate a new loving home.

GSPs are amazing dogs but they are not for everyone. They have extremely high energy and need lots of activity and a "job" to do. This could be hunting, nose work, obedience, agility, or other dog sports. They need both mental and physical activity every day, and they are not the kind of dog that can be left alone for long periods of time. They are generally very affectionate and good with children. They are highly trainable and aim to please. They are also born to hunt, so a secure fenced in yard is a must. They will follow their nose anywhere! You can read more about the breed on the AKC web site. This article, also from the AKC gives a great summary of what to expect from this exceptional breed, including challenges you may encounter. It's important to understand the needs of any breed you are considering before bringing home a new puppy.

GSPs are exceptionally versatile dogs! They are most well-known for hunting, but that is not all they can do. Visit my versatility page to see the various sports and activities my puppies are involved in with their families.