Leerburg / Ask Cindy / New / I would like to get a new dog for obedience compet...

September 08, 2023

I would like to get a new dog for obedience competition, would you suggest starting with a puppy or young adult dog?

Full Question:

Cindy, again, thank you so much for your availability. This is a terrific help, and I love Leerburg. A question please... I'm interested in getting a new dog for AKC Obedience and Rally. Several professionals have recommended choosing a young adult such that the dog's potential is more readily assessed, stating that there are too many unknowns with puppies even when well bred. Others have said that getting a puppy is best to form an early relationship and to begin early luring and attention games from the beginning. Do you have a recommendation on starting with a puppy or a young adult dog? Thank you, Cindy!

Cindy's Answer:

I don't think I can make a recommendation because there are too many variables. I've taken both young puppies and young adults with some good and some not so good results.

For me, it's about the relationship and chemistry between me and the dog. It's not always possible to predict what that may be in the beginning of a new relationship whether it's a pup or older dog.

If I did take a young adult I would probably only take one from a friend that I knew had done the type of foundation that meshes with my training system. A puppy is a clean slate. So my recommendation is to do what makes the most sense to you.

User Response:

Cindy, thank you. This is helpful. There are aspects here that I wouldn't have thought of. I so very badly want this to go well. THANKS!!

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