There are approximately a dozen breeders in Victoria so unless these breeders breed every year there are some times of the year that puppies are not available. There is no set time of year that this happens.
How much does a puppy cost?
Prices vary between breeders. Approximate cost $800-$1500
What is the difference between a show quality pup and a pet quality pup?
The difference between Pet and Show quality is determined by each breeder. It usually involves something cosmetically incorrect. ie Ridge has more than two crowns or is offset at crowns, too much white on chest or feet, mouth does not have correct scissor bite, dog will be too big or too small in terms of breed standard. These are just some of the reasons, there are many more.
If you are buying a pet ask the breeder why the puppy is being sold as a pet and get them to explain how this may affect the dog.
How much will my puppy eat?
Information about feeding, should be provided by the breeder at the time of purchase - it is always wise to keep feeding the same food as the breeder has been and slowly change them to your preferred food type.
Should I teach my puppy obedience?
Obedience- it is recommended that all dogs attend Obedience school so that they can be socialised with other dogs and learn basic obedience skills. We recommend the school closest to where you live so that you are more likely to attend on a regular basis. You can start when your dog has had all their vaccinations.
What is a dermoid sinus?
Dermoid Sinus- condition similar to spina bifida in Humans the Puppy is born with the condition but shows no pain or symptoms. This condition is not visible and has to be felt for by the breeder under the skin. They are looking for a thin cord connecting the outside of the coat to the spine. The only way to remove a sinus is surgically and involves cutting away entire area to ensure no regrowth. If the sinus is not removed it can become infected. Our code advises these puppies to be put down by the vet.
The club regularly holds Lure Coursing events at KCC Park and other venues around Melbourne and is also available for Lure hires.
LURE COURSING
........... the sport that all dogs love to play!!!!
What is Lure Coursing and why do dogs love doing it ?
The answer is quite simple.
Lure Coursing gives your dog the opportunity to do what comes naturally.......... to chase, sniff the ground, jump, pivot and chase again.
Regardless of the breed of dog, they are able to run and enjoy themselves in a safe and controlled environment. There are no dangerous obstacles which they can run into and the area is enclosed within a special dog park owned by the Victorian Canine Association. This area is fully fenced and gives the dog the perfect opportunity to play a sport that comes closest to what they do naturally ........ to chase off lead.
The equipment used is quite simple and consists of 300 metres of fishing line strung around several pulleys set into the ground to form the course. A plastic bag is tied to the line and is powered around the pulleys by a battery operated motor.
The operator can stop the lure at any time and can change direction as well.
For those dogs who regularly attend we have developed a system of thin pipes which the lure will go through and then stop inside. The dogs will then frantically search for where it has gone by sniffing the ground, looking in the pipes or try to look under the pipe. The lure can either proceed through the pipe or can reverse and trick the dogs by coming out the opposite end.
This is a sight to behold and every dog owner is encouraged to give their dog the opportunity to prove his or her skill at this sport. Words cannot describe the expressions on owners faces when they see their dogs stride out in full flight and chase the lure. Even if they dont run the whole course it doesnt matter. It is not competitive and is used to give your dogs a fun activity and a easy way for you to exercise them.
This sport appeals to both big and small dogs and we often have several different breeds running together. Imagine seeing a long legged Deerhound bounding along with a short legged Staffordshire terrier. They both have their own styles and are a joy to watch. If your dog is unsure of what to do we can run them with an experienced dog so that they get the idea. The dogs are encouraged by the crowd and if confused, their owners areencouraged to show them how to run. This can cause quite a few laughs as well.
The smaller dogs endeavour to put their heads in the ends of the pipes to see where the lure has gone, while the bigger dogs just try and flip the pipes over. Others will cut the corners and wait for the lure to come to them. Little do they know that the operator willstop and reverse the lure. The chase is then on once again.
The lure costs $1.00 per run. This is the cheapest way for you to exercise your dog while you stand still. Your dog will love it and you will love to watch your special friend do it.
This sport is run competitively in the US and in other states of Australia. In the future we hope to be able to offer competitive race days where your dog is judged on its ability to follow the lure rather than speed.
The equipment and operator can be hired out to Clubs and Groups for fun days, Xmas Parties, fund raising events etc.
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