01/08/2023
BEFORE you buy that puppy.
Educate yourself on the traits, behavior, care and feeding and common health issues in the breed so you know what you are dealing with. Research SPAID, FSF, entropion and other common Pei issues.
Does the breeder FULLY health test their breeding stock? Minimum testing should be genetic tests for SPAID risk (test for both the HAS2 CNV # and the MTBP gene)….these indicate risk of SPAID and related health issues like FSF. Also for genetic risk for Glaucoma and Primary Lens Luxation (POAG/PLL) and OFA on Hips minimum and preferably on patellas and elbows too. Health testing of parents is the best way of you getting the healthiest Pei puppy possible. If breeder doesn’t test (no BS or excuses should be accepted) then move on to an ethical, responsible breeder that does this health testing. It is expensive to fully health test breeding stock so such offspring may cost more but will likely save you a fortune in Vet bills down the road.
When you get the puppy it should be wormed and vaccinated and the eyes should be free of any signs of entropion. Eyes should be wide open, clear, bright. No squinting, g**k or keeping eyes shut. Breeder should tack the eyes if needed before homing the puppy. Tacking may need to be done multiple times and the puppy may go on to needing Entropion repair surgery.
Research potential Vet expenses for common Pei issues. Things can get pretty expensive if puppy is unhealthy/unsound. Eye tacking can run $700-$800. Entropion repair surgery alone can cost $2-3K. Be prepared and self educated BEFORE you buy that puppy. A bad FSF (fever/inflammatory episode) can cost hundreds or a couple grand. Be prepared. Join FB health groups and read the posts and stories to educate yourself more thru the experiences of other Pei owners.
Do NOT buy a huge headed, excessively wrinkled puppy as many such are at higher risk for SPAID related health issues. Go for the mildly or moderately wrinkled puppy with a moderate head or a Traditional bone mouth puppy. Parents should be moderate in wrinkle with moderate head and only a little, if any adult body wrinkle.
Pei are a primitive, primal breed so research these terms and research other behavioral issues and training BEFORE you buy a puppy. FB health groups are a good resource for training and temperaments. Breeder should also be educating buyer on behavior and temperament.
Good breeders offer education and support when there is an issue that arises. Ask your breeder up front what kind of support they provide if something goes wrong. Not all issues are guaranteed but even then the breeder should be there to listen and provide knowledge and emotional support as is possible.
Learn that there is a difference between a “reputable” breeder (one who is well known) and an ethical, responsible breeder who does EVERYTHING in their power to provide the healthiest puppy with the best temperament. A few breeders are both and an unknown breeder may be the most ethical and responsible. Don’t go by emotions when shopping for a puppy. Shop around so you can find the most ethical and responsible breeders and healthiest possible Pei puppy.
