Call In: How to be tough but healthy competition
In fact, being tough competition is all about being nice to work with, friendly, and honest. Getting nasty like the story of the guy with the Google ad robot in this
call is not
Myth Buster
Popular Myth:
Requiring potential puppy buyers to fill out an application will turn them away.
Well, we have proven opposite, and here’s why requiring your potential puppy buyers to fill out an approval application can simplify things for you as a breeder.
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#1. Potential buyers want it.
According to a recent study done by TDJ, 41% of potential customers actually specified that they want this! Have you ever had someone reach out about a puppy and ask if you had any questions for them before they come pick out their puppy? Most prospects want to feel like they’ve earned the right to purchase a puppy from you, and providing them with a basic questionnaire can give them the opportunity to tell their story, and feel like they deserve an amazing puppy.
#2. It shows that you care.
If you as the breeder ask some basic questions before agreeing to place a puppy with someone, that sends a message that you care about the puppy, and that you want this to be a great fit and a smooth transition. Just blindly placing puppies with anyone that has the funds to pay for it can lead to frustration and confusion for you, the puppy, and the new owner.
#3. It can cut down on “tire kickers” dramatically.
#3 It can cut down on “tire kickers” dramatically. Let’s face it, it’s not hard to fall in love with a puppy you see online and start a conversation with the breeder, without ever even making sure that buying a new puppy is a good idea. While for me as a breeder that’s not all bad, as it can start a conversation that may result in a purchase down the road. However, it some point it’s time to find out how serious this prospect is, and by asking them to fill out a brief questionnaire, you’re confirming that yes, this is a legit inquiry.
#4. It signals dedication.
When someone reaches out about a puppy, I answer any questions they have, and then I ask for an email address, at which point I send an informational email with the questionnaire attached. You know when someone is dedicated enough to take the time to fill out this information, they’re probably dedicated enough to follow through with other recommendations you make as a breeder. Also, if you ask the right questions, it can help to make your prospect be and feel more prepared.
So, is this really a myth? Well, maybe not completely, as it may turn away prospects that aren’t dedicated or aren’t the right fit for your puppy, and honestly, that’s probably better anyway!
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Adventures: Iditarod Sled Race Pt. 3
the last two editions of the Dog Journal I have covered various aspects of the race and trail: The start in Anchorage, some experiences running the trail on snowmobiles (or snowmachines, as we call them in Alaska), and now we will cover the final leg of the racefrom the last checkpoint in Safety, to the famous burled arch finish line in downtown Nome. It typically takes mushers eight to twelve days to reach Nome after the starting line in downtown Anchorage.
Customer Survey: Issue 6
Now, in this issue, we’re going to see if the people that support the program would actually pay more or choose a puppy coming from a program like this over one that does not. Please remember that there are lots of other good reasons to keep becoming more ethical and stepping up our game, but in this article we are talking only about the monetary gain that can happen.