[HexcewlyRette]

I would say that, unless you were really interested in confirmation showing, there are many shelter dogs that can do everything you mention. I do understand wanting to get a dog from a good breeder though as it is what I plan to do when I get my SBT.

I'd start by talking to breeders with dogs you like the look of and are in your price range. For me, the reason to go to a breeder is for the health and temperament testing they do along with proving their dogs by competing. You'll pay more but that's the point! I would find out what health testing they have done for their dogs, why they bred the litter, what their plans are, etc. Do some research yourself to find out the most important items that need to be tested for in the breed. If I'm paying for a dog from a breeder I would want to have their hips and elbows certified (especially if I was looking for a sport dog). If there are any known medical problems in the breed I'd want to see testing to prove the dog isn't a carrier. I'd also be more inclined to get a pup from dogs who have been certified through the ATTS (American Temperament Test Society). This isn't a test you practice for - it puts dogs in different situations and sees how they recover from stress and confrontation. I find it to be a great tool to show the stability of a dog.


Jet came from a shelter - he was a failed foster and is a good dog. Our great dane was a gift from a friend through a breeder. He's definitely pet quality but his parents were health tested and have great temperaments. Molli, our border collie mix, was a CL adoption. My next dog, be it a great dane or staffordshire bull terrier, will come from a quality breeder because I want as long as possible with the dane and plan to do sports with the SBT.