Central Valley Gun Dogs currently has started dogs available. A started dog is a AKC "junior" level dog that is also steady to shot. A started dog has been shot over and ready to be put into the field as a basic gun dog. All started dogs have a minimum 4 months of training, are current on all of their shots and guaranteed to pass a AKC junior level stake. Started dogs are for dog owners looking to by-pass the puppy stage and ready to have a dog that they can take into the field. All started dogs are crate trained and accustomed to traveling in crates. The purchase of a started dog also includes owner training. Even more important than a well trained dog is a handler that knows how to get the most out of that well trained animal. Central Valley Gun Dogs prides itself on being able to teach gun dog owners how to handle and get the most out of their hunting partner.
A started dog is a large initial investment. But in the long run this investment will prove to be less expensive than starting with a puppy and then taking that puppy through gundog training. Most well pedigreed pups sell for $900-$1100. Then you have to purchase a puppy shot package from your vet. Feed the growing, eating machine for 4-5 months (avg bag of Eukanuba runs $45 for a 30lb bag). Once your pup is 6-7 months old he can go to gundog school which runs approximately $725/ mo for a 4 month period. As you can see the costs can add up. You also have no guarantee that your pup that you have invested so much time, energy and money into will turn out to be the type of gundog you are looking for. This is not so with a started dog. When you purchase a started dog you know exactly what you are buying and what the dog is capable of from a hunter's perspective. Dogs are loyal and loving animals and their favorite person is always the one that cares for them. For a started dog this is me for their first year. After that it will be you. Dogs are quick to adopt new families if they are loved and taken care of. The misconception that the "bonding" time from puppy-hood is quickly forgotten when a young started dog comes home for the first time. That dog will act as if it has been a part of the family since it was born.
If you are interested in a started dog please contact me at (209) 404-8769 for a list of available dogs and prices.