I spent about two months looking for a standard schnauzer, which is the middle size. I did an extraordinary amount of research on the breed. It started by me just surfing the web trying to figure out what breed would fit my life style. I hike, I run, surf, camp, the whole nine yards. I'm a very active on the go person, and I needed a breed that would meet my need for activity. After typing in what characteristics I wanted or needed out of a dog, this was one that popped up. I loved the fact that they don't shed, they're a medium sized dog, definitely an active breed! I also saw that they came in a few different colors (almost like camping gear, you get to chose your color. Ha). I saw an ad in the Asbury Park Press for American Puppy Club, I called and explained what i was looking for. They said they did ordering, and if I didn't like the one they brought in I didn't have to take it. I accepted that and before placing an order I knew I wanted to see the place first. I drove up to Middletown, and came to find the facility was immaculate! No musky smell, no urine or feces. The puppys were bouncing around, some were sleeping, but above all they had food and water with them, and they looked clean! They also had toys and little blankets in them which I thought was a nice touch. This was definitely unlike any other place I'd ever been to. I talked to one of the girls, explained again what I was looking for, she stopped me mid-sentence and said I had spoken to her on the phone and understood what I wanted. She left for a few minutes came back and said we could place the order today. I placed the order for a female salt and pepper standard schnauzer. However i specified certain markings I wanted and asked if that were possible, she said they'll try their hardest and if I don't like what they bring in, they'll bring in more for me until im completely satisfied. I waited about three and a half weeks before I got my first phone call. They had a puppy for me to look at! I went in extremely excited but did not get my hopes up. I sat with the puppy for a little bit, and was a little apprehensive about the puppy. Of course the girl came over and asked how I was doing. I told her I was uncertain about the puppy and asked if I could come back the next day to sit with her again. She said absolutely and wanted to make sure I was comfortable before I took anything home! I went back the next day sat with her for about an hour and decided I liked her personality and her markings were where I wanted them to be. The first day I sat with her she didn't interact with me which is why I was apprehensive about taking her right then and there. The second day she really came out of her shell. I was extremely impressed. Now two years later, she's fortyfive pounds, built and an unbelievable companion. I could not have asked for a better dog! Training was farely easy, every puppy has their ups and downs. I've been thinking about a second standard, maybe all black this time. I will definitely be going back to American Puppy for my second, just as soon as i figure out what I want.
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