Where can I find one?
Please contact a responsible hobby breeder. Hobby breeders are members of the community, just like you. Most of us support local dog clubs, SPCA, and dog training facilities. We care a great deal about matching the new owner with just the right canine companion, and we strongly encourage responsible pet ownership. Please avoid pet stores or suppliers that say they can "get you one somewhere for the right price". Hobby breeders know their puppies and will be there for you if and when you need extra assistance or advice.
Puppy or older dog - which is right for me?
Almost everyone wants the "baby puppy" especially if they see them between four and eight weeks of age. However, many people have found that a dog that is a little older (up to a year) is a better choice. They avoid some of the bother of house-training, teething, initial training, etc. Sometimes the breeder will have, or know of, a slightly older puppy or young adult. Talk to the breeder about this, and keep an open mind. The only reason that puppy is still at the breeder's home is because the right buyer has not yet come along. The breeder can help you choose the age of puppy/dog that is best for your life style.
Male or Female - or does it matter?
As with age, it is best to discuss this with the breeder, since they know the puppies best and can advise you on the one that will fit best in your family. Both males and females exhibit the characteristic Elkhound personality: both are excellent companions and very good with children. There is no hard evidence to prove that one bonds better, stays home more, or trains more easily. Over 30 years of experience tells us there is no significant difference. Unless you definitely plan to show/breed your Elkhound, trust the breeder to help you choose the most suitable puppy in the litter, regardless of gender.
What about costs/guarantee?
Prices vary from breeder to breeder and from one litter to another. Price is dependent on the breeding stock used, the cost of the stud fee, and overall litter costs. Hobby breeders charge more for their puppies than the SPCA or the "Pound" since a great deal more time, effort and expense has gone into producing the puppies in the first place. A responsible breeder does not produce some "show" litters and some "pet" litters; every breeding is done with the intent of improving/enhancing those important Elkhound traits that make it the dog that it is. As the new owner, you have the guarantee that the breeder will stand behind the dog they have sold you. At Overscaig, our puppies always go to "pet" homes because we believe that an Elkhound is first and foremost a member of the family. Future decisions to show/breed are left up to the new family.
Registration Papers - yes or no?
Yes! Yes! Yes!
Official ownership and registration papers are a legal requirement under the Federal Department of Agriculture/Livestock Act. They are about the least expensive item in raising a litter of puppies, and are your guarantee that you are receiving what you paid for - a purebred dog with all the physical and emotional traits characteristic of that breed.