____1)Take full responsibility for this dog and all its needs for the next 12-15 years, or more? This is NOT a task that can be left to children!

____2)Invest the considerable time, money and patience it takes to train the dog to be a good companion? (This does not happen by itself!!!!)

____3)Always keep the dog safe; no running loose, riding in the back of an open pick up truck or being chained outside?

____4)Make sure the dog gets enough attention and exercise every day? (The Aatu Tamaskan is an energetic and intelligent dog and requires attention and challenge.)

____5)Live with shedding and high activity for the next 10-15 years?

____6)Spend the money it takes to provide proper veterinary care including but certainly not limited to: proper nutrition, vaccines, heartworm testing and preventative, spaying or neutering (if required) and annual check ups?

____7)Become educated about the proper care of the breed, correct training methods and how to groom? (There are many good books available, invest the time to read a few.  Something in is better than nothing in.)

____8)Keep the breeder informed and up to date on the dogs accomplishments and problems? (This is a lifetime relationship, and we will follow up!)

____9)Take your questions or any issues to the breeder or other appropriate professional before they become problems that are out of hand?

____10)Have the patience to accept (and enjoy) the trials of puppy hood, which can last for five years, and each stage afterward?

____11)Continue to accept responsibility for the dog despite inevitable life changes such as new babies, kids going off to school, moving or returning to work?

____12)Resist impulse buying, instead have the patience to make a responsible choice?

____13)If you answered yes to ALL of the above you are ready to start contacting breeders. Start early because most responsible breeders have a waiting list ranging from a few of months to a couple of years. Remember, the right puppy or adult dog IS worth waiting for!!