Puppies in Sonoma County?

[alexor23]

Howdy all!

We are looking to get a new puppy sometime in the next month or so. We're planning to get a mix, but we want to know the parents and the owner(s). We're looking for a little guy with some mixture of german shepard, lab, maybe pit, maybe ridgeback, etc. - smart, big, and active.

We're still in the 'exploring' stage, but if anybody had any leads on humane, knowledgeable people to get a puppy from, we'd be interested to know more.

Thanks!

[bill shearer]

I have done really well getting companion animals for my family using petfinders.com. I contacted rescue listings that were close enough to us to go to and described what would be a good fit in our home. Then we met with the animals that were the best candidates for us with their foster people, and found our wonderful dog and cats. I truly could not have gotten any more suitable pets any other way!
Good luck to you, Dodie

[Shepherd]

I got my puppy from a family in Cazadero, which is about an hour north of Sebastopol. I tried to include a photo in this post, but it did not transfer. She is a beautiful Catahoula leopard hound, which has some of the qualities of the breeds you mention. If you send me an email, I will forward some photos of her. This family does not breed, but from time to time they have puppies. I have been very satisfied with her.

[bill shearer]

Thank you Dian for your kind words and information about the local rescue scene.

The point I wish to make clear to you Alex, and the rest of you reading this, is that the best way to find yourself a ideal companion animal is to take advantage of adoption. Because there are so many to choose from, and you will be helped by the knowledgeable, talented caregivers you will find someone that will mesh well in your home. Even young puppies and kittens display personally traits, that the staff will help you to connect with the type you seek. Looking for the leader of the pack, class clown, mellow lap surfer, tolerant nanny, etc? Or, if you are open to looking into bringing home a older animal, you get the benefit of knowing exactly who they are and can start your functional relationship right away without drama. Is adoption the right thing to do because it is the most humane thing to do? Absolutely! But it is also the most intelligent way to get the best match for you!

Do it for their sake, and do it for your own.
Cheers,
Dodie

[bill shearer]

Shepard, what do you mean by "This family does not breed, but from time to time they have puppies"? If they have a bitch and she has puppies then breeding must have happened, right?
On the other hand, perhaps you mean that they may have foster puppies that they care for. If so then Kudos to them! And what a great way for someone who has love for puppies or kittens to have them in their life without contributing to more overpopulation.
So happy for you and your dog,
Dodie