WHAT MAKES A RETIRED SHOW DOG DIFFERENT?
We have taken a moment to put together some information about the amazing opportuntiy to own one of our retired show dogs. These special placements don’t come along often, however when they do, we always hear from those select families who end up approved about their incredible expereince in taking a retired adult placement.
Key things to know about retired show dogs:
They are aclimated to living and interacting with other dogs of all breeds.
With few exceptions, the vast majority of our retired dogs have spent their lives at AKC all breed dog shows where they’ve encountered everything from Toy Poodles to Great Danes. They’ve also spent time being raised in our home with other dogs and are used to building relationships within multi dog households.
They are crate trained and have basic manners
In order to have a successful show career travel is a must! Our retired dogs are trained from puppyhood to travel in a size appropriate dog crate. They are fed on a schedule and excessive barking or other unwanted behaviors are not tolerated. You’re gaining a balanced, but still quirky member of your household when you welcome a retired adult.
You get to “Skip” Puppy kindergarten!
While a new puppy is always fun, some of the less fun parts you get to skip! An adult obviously will be expected to sleep through the night (unlike a puppy who generally will need to be let out to potty every 3-4 hours when they first go home). They also have made it through their vaccination series and will simply require maintenance vet care (annual check ups, heartguard/flea preventative). They also will not go through the teething phase and other “baby” behaviors that while cute, definitely are alot of extra work!
Retired Show placements are NOT the same as a Rescue dog
We love passionate homes that can take on a rescue and always support Bull Terrier rescue efforts. However, we do understand a rescue Bull Terrier is not always the right fit for all homes. A big factor is many Bull Terrier rescues require single dog/pet homes exclusively, while retired adults generally will live happily with other canine family members. Retired adults from the show/breeding program are NOT rescue dogs. When we place a retired dog, its always difficult. They have given us a portion of their lives to participate in our show/breeding program. They have been OUR personal companions during that time, sometimes for up to 2-4 years. We always feel, as much as it is hard for us, that we OWE them a dediated couch to call their own in retirement for the time they’ve given us. They have ALWAYS been wanted, very much so from birth. They have never been unwanted or known a single day of not being housed, cared for, fed and are much loved. That is why we put such thought and care into ensuring their placement results in a “forever” home. Thank you for considering a retired adult placement. If you think a retired adult placement is right for your family, please contact us!
