Anxious in Indy

responded to an ad (which I know is not the best way to get an OES); went out to see the litter and have fell in love with all 8 (but can only take 1 home). The breeder has had OES all his life and wasn't trying to breed (so he tells me), and this is 2nd litter. I am not a trusting person and after all my research, I am very skeptical about moving forward with the purchase. I put a deposit down and haven't been able to sleep since. I know this is the breed I want, but am more skeptical about the breeder.
The pups haven't had their first shots, and I noticed many of them had loose bowel movements.

My pup didn't seem as broad as several others in the litter. His eyes are not blue, but appear to be gray (?) His nose wasn't totally black-not sure if this will change as he matures (?) I have called the vet and they mentioned they have seen a high rate of skin allergies in the OES.

Help! I am a novice here, love OES but wonder if I should wait.....
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Have you asked to see mom and pops health papers? OFA, CERF, that kind of thing? Are the pups registered? How old are the puppies? I would ask these questions, others that you'll think of, and really go with your gut instinct. If you aren't completely comfortable about your decision it may be beneficial to wait it out and get a puppy through a relaxed, open, and planned manner. GOOD LUCK - do you have any pictures?
Great advice Emily.
I wanted to add a little info about the eyes and nose. Acceptable eye coloring for OES, Brown, Blue, and Wall eye (one brown, one blue)
Also the nose pigment will fill in with age.
glowgirl wrote:
The breeder has had OES all his life and wasn't trying to breed (so he tells me), and this is 2nd litter


Maybe someone can educate him on how to avoid making baby sheepies. You'd think he would have learned the first time...with the money from the litter I'm sure he would have had encough to spay/neuter....But the almighty dollar makes it so tempting not to....

You get what you pay for. A reputable breeder tests the breeding stock and is there as support for the life of your puppy. Will you get this assurance?

Go with your gut.
You didn't mention how old the litter was that you looked at. Pups can easily have loose stools at a few weeks old but by 8 wks they should be firm. I'm not sure what age they get their first shot but I'm thinking it's 5-6 weeks and all pups usually are dewormed. If this guy has no experience having a litter then maybe he doesn't know all of these things??

If you've put a deposit down & he's holding a puppy for you, he has a right not to give it back to you. I would call him and make up some story about losing a family member or your job or your house to and appeal to him for your money back.
glowgirl wrote:
The breeder has had OES all his life and wasn't trying to breed (so he tells me), and this is 2nd litter.


That's the part that would make me run. While people can make mistakes, he should have learned after the first litter. Why does he have unneutered dogs if he doesn't intend to breed them? That sounds like a lie to me. And if he's lying about that, I'd be worried about what else he is doing. Were the puppies overdue for their first shots? I didn't think they were supposed to see people until after at least the first set. . .

Your instincts are to second guess this choice. I would trust your instincts.

Best wishes. . .
Welcome to the forum! If the guy wasn't trying to breed- why does he have pups if he is a responsible pet owner?!! I would be very skeptical as well. There are many Sheepies out there that need a furever home... many rescues have pups and adults. Good luck with your decision, I am sure it is a tough one, but if you are questioning yourself now, follow your gut!!
Thank you for the replies. I have spent some time on this site gathering very helpful information, and I have developed quite a few questions to ask the owner. The owner and I will talk tomorrow. Everyone has been very nice and I can not wait until I can share my OES moments (and photos) with you; whether now or later. I have to admit, I have fallen for a puppy and it will be hard if I have to walk away. The owner has agreed to allow me to take the puppy to my vet, and have it checked out, but I understand that there are things that can develop down the road. I will be reviewing the health certifications of mom & dad tomorrow and I have been told that there are no "surprises." The owner has told me the lineage of the dad, but since I am new to OES ownership, the information isn't helpful. I would be willing to share this info with anyone who thinks they may be able to help.

Thanks again for all of the feedback- Will keep you updated! :)
You can PM me with the info for the sire.
Have you gotten to talk to the owner yet? Wondering how things went. Was he able to answer your questions and was there a good outcome?!
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