Show dogs who are retired are typically over the age of 3 years old and are health tested for breeding. They are dogs who have shown in conformation and been socailized to compete in sports (many include obedience and agility aside from conformation). These dogs are crate trained, house trained, have basic obedience (some have advanced), started in sports, have been socialized with a variety of people and are well rounded family members.

 

Many of the female show dogs have had at least one litter of puppies prior to retirement.  The girls who have had litters tend to be more patient then dogs who haven't had puppies. This makes them very social with puppies and immature dogs.

 

All our dogs are raised in our home in a multidog environment. They have had exposure to a number of different temperament dogs and are good with most dogs. Many of our dogs who have retired into single dog homes enjoy at least once a month visits (the more the better) to dog parks where they can be part of a 'pack'.

 

As you can see there are a number of good reasons to get a retired show dog; including but not limited to knowing house manners, being house trainned, being crate trainned, having health clearances, being socialized with a number of dogs including puppies and immature dogs, have basic obedience and many of them have even tried a sport or two!