Getting a Toller Puppy

There is more to getting a puppy than just buying one, it’s important to carefully research breeders and their dogs. Tollers are a rare breed in NZ, so waitlists can be long, but If the breed is right for you they’re definitely worth the wait!
Puppies are a lot of work, and getting one is not a decision you should make lightly. We’ve put together a list of things to consider when looking at getting a puppy. Don’t be afraid to ask the breeder questions, a responsible breeder will be happy to answer them.


Questions to ask yourself:

  • Do you have time to train a puppy?

  • Who will care for the puppy during the day?

  • Can you afford to care for the puppy (cost of food, vet care, toys etc)?

  • Do you have the time to provide enough daily stimulation and exercise for a Toller?

  • Will the Toller temperament fit with your family/lifestyle?

Questions to ask the breeder:

  • Can I meet the parent/s?
    A responsible breeder should be happy for you to meet the parents. Meeting the parents is a great way to get an idea of what the puppies’ temperament will be like. In New Zealand it may be that the father is located in another country as the population of Tollers is still small.

  • Have the parents had the required breed specific health and DNA clearances done?
    Both parents should be hip/elbow scored, DNA checked for CDDY (Chondrodystrophy), PRCD (Progressive Rod Core Degeneration), JADD (Juvenile Addison’s Disease), CEA (Collie Eye Anomaly), cleft palate/lip and have a current eye certificate at the time of breeding.

  • How long have you been breeding? Are you experienced with the breed?
    A breeder should have knowledge about the general temperament and requirements of the breed, and what genetic diseases they can be prone to.

  • Is the puppy up to date on vaccinations and has it been dewormed?
    Your potential pup should have been to the vet for a check up and received its’ first round of vaccinations, and should be dewormed every two weeks from birth.

  • How have the puppies been socialized?
    It’s important for puppies to be properly socialized so that they become well adjusted dogs. Ask if they have been around various types of people, and are used to being handled.

  • When can I take the puppy home?
    Puppies should not leave their mother and siblings before they are 8 weeks old.

Breeders

Think your home would be great for a Toller puppy? Click Here to see our breeder directory

 

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