This FAQ section contains the many questions that I have been asked. It is a guide only and not intended to scare you off, or discourage you from adopting a puppy. It is an education tool.
How much do you charge for your pups?All dogs are individuals and deserve to be treated as such. We do not enjoy talking prices until we know that you are really serious about this being YOUR breed.and not that you are just falling in love with a pretty and unusual animal, or are just window shopping. This is a long term commitment for you, so move slowly and carefully and make an educated decision. Because this is a rare breed, you can expect that the adoption fee will be considerably more than what you would pay for puppies sold in the newspaper, on a street corner, out of the back of a truck or car, or from a shopping cart at the local Walmart.All authorized breeders charge between 1200.00 and 1500.00 per pup. If you can’t pick up at my home, all travel costs are your responsibility. If cost is an issue, there are many wonderful dogs in rescues, or at the shelter who need homes. At times an adult NAID will come up in rescue. I keep a list of adults that need new homes. BUT regardless if you are buying or adopting, the initial cost is only the beginning. This chart will help you to determine if you can afford to add any dog or puppy into your household. Keep in mind that a dog is a 14 to 17 year commitment.
How do I reserve a NAID pup from you? The first step is to fill out my pup questionnaire which I will e mail to you. Once I receive your questionnaire, I will contact you within 3 days to answer any questions that you may have, and to determine if a NAID is right for your household. IF you are approved, You will need to read, print out and send my Adoption Agreement along with a NON REFUNDABLE $50.00 deposit to reserve a future pup. We reserve the right to refuse a deposit, or refund a deposit if we determine your life situation is not in our pups best interest. If a litter is already born, the deposit is $500.00. Keep in mind, that our girls are not breeding machines,usually, we can predict when a girl will come into heat but, we can not guarantee that she will conceive. Sometimes, the girls will have false pregnancies. While we occasionally have puppies available, we only breed for the development and improvement of the breed.
Will you offer Professional or Military Discounts? Yes to all Military members. I appreciate what you guys/gals do for our country to protect our freedom! Professional discounts are on a case by case basis. All discounts are by private treaty.
Your dog is not recognized by the AKC, so isn’t it just an expensive mutt?As with all breeds, you start out with mutts and end up with a registerable breed. All purebred dogs, including AKC dogs, started out as mutts – combinations of different dogs bred together to get certain characteristics and traits. Once recognized by a registration, they now become purebreds. This breed is no different. Initial cost is irrelevant compared to the life long care and maintenance of any breed of dog or cat.
Will my dog feel less like a man if I neuter him? OY! Nope, he won’t miss a thing, and you will fortunately, skip the male (and female) marking territory, people, places and things, which both sexes start at maturity at around 6 months. Once this behavior becomes a habit, neutering/spaying usually will not stop it. Besides, it is in your signed contact, YOU MUST SPAY OR NEUTER! If you want, there are testicular implants called Neuticles that you can have implanted in your male dog when he is neutered, so you are assured that he is not missing anything. LOL. While I appear to be making fun, I’m not joking. I have been asked this question, many times. The info is below for testicle challenged dogs and their owners.
Neuticles.com
Testicular prosthetic implants for neutered pets
What type of collar should I buy for my pup? A harness is your best bet as it will not injure the pups neck. As your pup matures, it’s natural instinct to pull may develop, and you may have to buy a head collar. A Gentle Leader is ideal to prevent pulling as it works the same way as a halter works on a horse, if your dog starts to pull, the Gentle Leader will pull his head around. If you keep a collar on your dog/puppy while it is loose in your yard, or kennel. PLEASE buy a safety collar. There has been a number of incidents involving dogs getting their jaws stuck in another dogs collar while playing or getting their collar stuck on a fence. In both cases, the dogs were strangled to death. This happened to me personally at my kennel, and earlier this week a NAID lost it’s life because of strangulation. If my dogs are collared, they wear a safety collar that will break away if they get stuck.
Wow, my puppy is shedding all over the place! I thought the NAID is a non shedding breed? Your puppy will go through two shed (molt) periods before stabilizing it’s regular shed. The first shed is the puppy shed (molt). this occurs between the age of 6 to 12 months. The second molt usually occurs 4 to 6 months after. By this time, all the puppy fur will have been replaced with it’s adult fur, and your dog should be on a fairly regular molt schedule. If fur bothers you, you can have your groomer shed out your pup, which will save your household from puppy fur. NAID breeders make no claim that NAIDs are a NON SHEDDING breed, but they do not continually molt like German Shepherds, etc. In colder climates, NAIDs usually molt once a year. In the warmer climates, you may experience two or even 3 molts. in a year. Stress can cause your NAID to molt more, as well as a improper diet.
Will you sell a breeding pair of dogs?No, I sell pet quality dogs only. A spay/neuter contract must be signed. Breeding any dog should be selectively done to improve the breed. The Native American Indian Dog needs to be carefully bred to remain true to the qualities it is bred for and to insure that its most desirable and unique characteristics are carried forward. Not every dog is breeding quality, no matter how beautiful and wonderful it might be.
Are these dogs really hypoallergenic? Because these dogs produce less allergens and dander, most allergic people can own them. Although used, the term hypoallergenic is not correct. We prefer “Allergy Sufferer Friendly.” Hypoallergenic is not the same as non allergenic. Dog allergens are very small, sticky, and lightweight. Originating in a dogs skin, saliva, and urine, the dander and saliva allergens are able to drift about your home, contaminating everything. All dog allergen is not the same, however, which is good news for allergy sufferers. Some pet allergens are breed specific, so some breeds produce less than others. These breeds shed their skin about every 21 days. Compare this to cocker spaniels, german shepherds, and Irish setters, which shed their skin every three to four days and you can understand how some breeds allow you to “breathe easier.” It is the skin cells that cause the reaction, not hair length. Hair length can have an impact though, because longer hair tends to hold more dust, pollen and other allergens.
Can your dogs be registered with the AKC? No, but they can be registered with the Native American Indian Dog Registry, The Native American Dog Breed Registry, and The Certified Pet Registry. Generally, people who compete in shows register their dogs. All of our NAIDs are registered with the National Kennel Club as well. However, due to ethical problems with that registry, we no longer use their services to register litters.
What breeds were used to re create the NAID? The foundation stock of the NAID was purchased from Native American Breeders and was augmented with a small amount of German Shepherd, Siberian Husky, Malamute, and Chinook bloodlines. The Malamute and the Siberian Husky are scientifically proven to be descendants of true Native Dogs.
I’ve read claims that NAID’s are wolf or coyote hybrids, is this true? No. This breed has a similar look to both as do Malamutes and Siberian Huskies. NAID breeders are trying to dispel the wolf dog rumor that was maliciously started by Song Dog Kennels several years ago. It is my understanding that a DNA test may now be able to identify wolf Lineage. I am happy to have my dogs tested at your expense.
My NAID howls at the moon, is he a wolf dog? No, most Northern Breeds howl and rarely bark.
Are these dogs good with children? Yes, however, no dog should substitute as a baby sitter for small children. Small children should be supervised around puppies at all times due to the teething and rough play that puppies commonly exhibit during adolescence. Please do not allow children to terrorize puppies, children must be quiet and speak in “inside voices” until the pup gets used to them. Rambunctious children can cause rambunctious behaviors in pups, which can lead to undesirable play biting, and can harm young skin. If you have a disruptive household, then this breed is probably not for you. NAIDs are very sensitive to negative feelings.
Do these dogs dig and poop a lot? Yes, both,! The amount of dog waste depends on the type of food that you use. NAID dogs do not do well when fed a poor quality food. Most NAIDs will look for any excuse to dig in a garden. Gophers, squirrels and even spiders! If you value your garden, lawn or dirt, I recommend fencing the area that is taboo for digging.
Can these dogs be kept as an inside dog only? Do you value your furniture?
Can your dogs be crate trained? Yes, all animals can be taught to crate. Crate training can be a wonderful training aid, if taught properly.
What is the difference between a Native American Indian dog and an American Indian dog? NAIDs and AIDs are a completely different breed and should never be confused with one another. I am very happy to answer questions about my NAIDs, but I make it a policy not to get involved in political “Dog Wars.” However, I will state that the wolf hybrid claims by the founder of the American Indian Dog is absolute hogwash, and a jealous ploy to discredit the NAID because of the similarity in the breed names, to which, he feels he has a sole right to use.
Will you ship? To the US and Canada only. You are responsible for all travel related costs including my time and gas. I will make all arrangements for you.
Do you use ground transport services? No. I have had negative results with both shipping and receiving animals using ground transport, especially cross country. Flying is a quicker, and safer option both physically and mentally. I have used pet air shipping services since 1970 with no issues or complaints.
Is it safe to ship puppies? At what age can you ship?Yes. Live cargo is big business for the airlines. All airlines have FCC regulated guidelines that they must follow. Puppies travel in a pressurized, temperature controlled area. Puppies are not allowed to ship before they are 8 weeks old. Some find that they save money by picking up their pup up at the kennel, plus the pup may be able to travel in the cabin with you. The airlines will charge you between $100 to $150. extra for your pup.
Ouch! Why does it cost so much to ship a puppy? Ask the airlines, they have tripled their fee’s since 9/11. All puppies must travel in a size appropriate airline approved hard travel crate with specific hardware. The pup must be able to stand, turn around and lay down comfortably, and containers for food and water must be provided. All puppies that travel by air are required to have an exam by a licensed veterinarian and have a interstate travel certificate, which is a separate charge from the office exam. You will also pay for the providers time and gas to the store to pick up the crate, travel and wait time at the vet’s office, and travel time/ gas to and from the airport. The time alone preparing and delivering the pup to the airport can exceed 7 hours, sometimes more if there is heavy traffic, or if the flight is delayed or cancelled. PLUS the breeder usually makes all flight arrangements and coordinates with the future owner, a convenient arrival time and date. I always suggest that the potential owner pick up the pup. It may be cheaper. But calculate your ticket cost, travel time, car rental, gas,meal cost, crate , vet exam,travel certificate, motel stay and the 125.00 to 150.00+ fee that the airline will charge you for the pup to travel in the cabin with you. (more if the pup won’t fit under the seat, and then you have to buy a hard kennel, because soft kennels aren’t allowed in cargo pet spaces.)
I bought a puppy from you, and the puppy is chewing every thing up!! What do I do? Have you enrolled your pup in a professional puppy class? The instructor will be able to help you and the puppy to survive annoying adolescent behaviors. Professional dog trainers have more knowledge to help you than a breeder. Pet Smart offers an excellent puppy class. All puppies purchased from me must attend a public puppy training class. Private in house classes defeat the purpose of the public class, which has excellent socialization values. Give your pup a black Kong, stuff it with peanut butter, and put it in the freezer. Most dogs love peanut butter, and this will keep your pup busy (usually for hours.)
Help!! I’m having training issues with my puppy!! The first thing I am going to ask you is “Have you enrolled your pup in a professional training class? If you have not, then please do so. I am very happy to work with both you and your trainer if need be.
Help!! My puppy pooped and peed on the carpet. I rubbed his nose in it and then threw him outside. How do I potty train him? Shame on you! Would you do that to a human baby? Puppies are no different than human infants, in that they can not hold their bowels, nor their bladders No infant of any kind should be hit, smacked or beaten. There are many valuable books available that can aid you with potty training your pup. You may also hire a professional.
I notice that breeder X is selling puppies for less money. Will you match their price if I buy from you? Sorry, no.
If these dogs are so great, why are they required to attend a puppy class? Puppies, like children do not know right from wrong. Both need guidance to become good citizens. A puppy class aids in puppy socialization with other humans, puppies and different situations. A trained professional is on hand to help address any issues. I am always avilable to help, but dog professionals attend regular training classes, which teach current and updated training methods to aid pups and owners. Breeders are not responsible for the care and training of pups once they leave for their new homes.
NAID dogs sound too good to be true, do they require any training? Yes. Like children, all dogs need to be trained. All puppies must attend a puppy class, and should attend at least one basic obedience class to become good canine citizens, and good representatives of the breed. A well behaved dog reflects on the owners too.
Are NAIDs good watchdogs? No, these dogs do not make good protection animals. They may alarm bark at strangers.
Do these dogs have any personality quirks?* Like all breeds of animals with intelligence,some do. NAIDs are a very intelligent and intuitive breed. With out proper socialization and introduction to humans of all sexes. Some are cautious of men, especially if they are tall, wear a hat, are boisterous and/or yell a lot. For this reason, I highly recommend that you introduce your pup to at least 200 people by the time that the pup is 5 months old. This includes taking the pup to puppy class, stores, malls, and concerts, everywhere! A timid dog is a result of improper training and socialization. Socialize, socialize, socialize and SOCIALIZE! * Some male NAIDs may suffer from separation anxiety if they are left alone for long periods of time. They must have a human or another canine for companionship. Some only dog households enroll their pups into a Doggy Daycare class, 2 to 3 days a week.
How many litters do you have each year? We only breed if we have deposits.
How many pups are in a litter? Between 2 and 5 puppies.
Can we have first choice of a pup? Because we only breed if we have deposits, pup selection is in order of the received date of your deposit. If you are the first to send in a deposit, then yes, you will have first choice of a pup.
Can we request sex, eye and coat color preferences? Yes, but we ask you to be flexible. We are not able to determine how many males vs. females will be born, nor hair coat and eye color. You will have the option of deferring to another litter if the pup choices are not to your liking.
I only have a 4 ft fence. Is it high enough to contain my NAID? Some NAIDs have been known to be “Houdini’s and escape artists. I recommend a minimum of 6 feet. I had one female who scaled a 9 ft chain link fence. Not all NAIDs do this, but it is always better to be safe than sorry.
I have a beautiful garden area in my back yard. Will my NAID bother my flowers and dig in my garden? Yes!! I recommend keeping your NAID in a secure kennel if you wish to keep your yard looking nice. A garden and a bored, unsupervised NAID are asking for disaster. If you have two dogs, this is generally not an issue.
What type of kennel fencing do you recommend for my NAID? I recommend the black ornamental steel fence panels that Lowe’s and Home Depot carries in its garden department. The fencing comes in 6 ft sections and is attractive, low cost and effective in keeping your NAID in its kennel. DO NOT use chain link for kennel fencing, your kennel could be “Gone in 60 Seconds!” I personally think that any breed larger than a Yorkie should not be kept in a chain link kennel.
Is there anything my vet needs to know about the NAID breed? No, the NAID is just a dog. You might tell your vet that the breed has Northern Dog bloodlines if they ask.
I am a very active person. Can I take my puppy mountain climbing with me? Talk with your vet first before allowing your pup to start any strenuous exercise. Compromising your puppy’s joints and bones at an early age can cause CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia) among other injuries. We do not offer any health warranty for CHD or other injuries, caused by joint, or bone abuse. Here is an excellent article that addresses hip dysplasia caused by activity abuse.
What type of food should I feed? My vet recommends feeding a good quality kibble made for large dog breeds. Feeding the wrong food can also cause CHD!! Your vet can give you food and amount suggestions. My vet suggests and sells Science Diet from his office, but I recommend Canidae® All life Stages Formula. Canidae is an all-natural, holistic pet food. NAIDs do not require a raw diet. Some NAIDs are sensitive to grain based food. We also recommend Blue Buffalo Wilderness, for grain sensitive NAIDs.
Do NAIDs suffer from old age illnesses? Like people, all dogs will suffer some old age illnesses.
How many times a day should I feed and water my pup? Three times a day is best. Feed the pup at the same time every day (so its body gets on a feeding and elimination “schedule” which will help with house training). Let the pup eat as much as it wants to at each sitting and then remove the food bowl. (Don’t leave food out for the pup all of the time. If it eats all day it will poop all day). Make sure it always has fresh water available throughout the day, but restrict water intake after 6:00 pm, so the pup can (hopefully) sleep through the night without having to urinate. Keep in mind that pups don’t have much conscious control of their bowels and bladder until they’re about 16 weeks old. Starting house training now is a good idea, but the pup will have occasional “accidents” until it’s old enough to better control its body.
Help!! My puppy is trying to hump my leg!! First of all, this is not a sexual act; he is trying to find out where he fit’s in with the pack. Many pet owners inadvertently provide positive reinforcement for undesired canine behavior by paying too much attention to their pets when they are behaving badly. If leg humping leads to continual scolding, petting, holding, etc., the dog will learn to start humping any time he craves attention. When your puppy starts exhibiting leg humping behavior, it’s important to sternly command him to stop. If he doesn’t stop immediately, the next step is to isolate him from everyone else. Put him outside or in another room. With time, this will teach your puppy that acting on his humping urges will cause him to be completely cut off from the attention he craves. By physically removing the dog from the company of the other members of the household when he starts leg humping, you’re sending the message that such behavior leads to no attention, which he won’t like. This type of behavior modification training can be very effective over time, because most canines will learn to avoid behavior that causes them to be isolated. If you are careful to avoid accidentally reinforcing this behavior in your pet, it’s likely that the behavior will go away on its own over time.
I found a breeder of NAIDs that is not on the authorized list, but there prices are cheaper than yours, will you price match? Sorry, No. First of all, be cautious of buying from a non authorized breeder.
Do you offer a multi-dog discount? Yes, I will sell the second pup for $50.00 less. If you are shipping your pup, you will save even more, as the airlines will allow two pups to travel in the same crate and fly both pups for the cost of one. Each pup must have a travel vet exam so you will have to pay for a vet exam for each pup traveling.
Does the NAID need a companion dog? That will depend if you intend to leave the pup alone for long periods of time. The NAID is a very social animal that needs company. If you work all the time, yes, you should have another dog as a companion. You can also take your pup to Doggy Day Care while you are at work.
I already have a small dog and want to get a NAID; will the NAID hurt my smaller dog? No, the NAID will love your small dog, BUT “Due to the lack of substantial gray matter in a small breed dog’s cranium, the ‘big ego’ issues a small dog possesses when it comes to sharing its life and home with a NAID, can cause a dilemma for the small breed.” courtesy of MVK. This quote is meant as a joke, but it is almost certain that if you have spoiled your smaller dog into thinking it is a human; it will develop behavioral issues because of “Small Dog Syndrome.“I highly recommend two same sized dogs for companionship. One of my NAID pup owners gives her small dog Prozac, because her “beloved Pookie” is no longer the spoiled, only child. This dog developed severe skin problems, bed-wetting, and intense shaking. Three NAIDs have recently were relinquished as rescues because the smaller dogs developed issues such as neurotic and napoleon complex problems. If you have a spoiled, small dog that rules your roost, it may not accept any other dog in your home, especially if the small dog has been raised Ah-La Paris Hilton.
Doggy Bag!
How do I stop my puppy from biting me? Here are links to web sites that can help you with this problem. You will have to cut and paste into your browser. http://www.doggonesafe.com/stop%20puppy%20from%20biting.htm http://www.lucythewonderdog.com/biting.htm http://www.eho.com/how_18746_stop-puppy-biting.html http://www.dog-obedience-training-review.com/how-to-stop-a-puppy-from-biting.html http://www.canismajor.com/dog/bite2.html NAIDs@nighteyesfarms.net
