Being sold the wrong dog!

[maggs]

Hi,
I'm in the State of Rhode Island, USA. In November I purchased a dog for $400.00 which was supposed to be 3/4 Maltaise, and 1/4 Bichon Frise. I specifically wanted a dog like the two above because my children suffer with allergies and I have to be careful what type of dogs they're around. It is now February, and this puppy is neither Maltaise or Bichon, in fact, I don't know what it is. She is a short haired tan dog, I thought I purchased, and wanted to purchase, a long haired, white dog. I've contacted the breeder by mail asking if there was any possibility that the mother got impregnated by another dog. She has not answered me as of this date. My question is, am I entitled to any type of a refund? $400.00 for a mixed breed is a lot of money, especially since I have no idea what mix she actually is. Do I have any rights as the purchaser?

Thanks

 

[vrzirn]

It sure is a lot for a mutt. It is a lot for any combination of mixed breed.A breeder of AKC registered dogs does not sell mutts; they sell dogs with "papers".
How does your bill of sale read? I would try SMC if you cannot return dog for refund. Bring the dog to court.

 

[maggs]

Thanks for responding! I took this dog to the Vet last night and was told it was a Chihuahua and Maltese mix, but definitely not Bichon at all. And boy was she fresh to the Vet, and that's when she said that she was pretty sure it was Chihuahua due to the way they nip at people. Which brings up another reason why this was a fraudulent sale, I have a 3 year old and certainly would not purchase a dog that has a good chance of biting her! I am definitely going to go to Small Claims Court because of the way this dog was even advertised. Unfortunately, there was no Bill of Sale, but I am going to retrieve the ad that was in the newspaper which stated the puppy was a Maltese/Bichon Frise mix that "does not shead"....did I mention this little puppy sheads too??? But now I'm attached to the little dog and don't have the heart to put her anywhere else, but I do want most of my money back, that's for sure.

Thanks again.

 

[vrzirn]

Next time try a Yorkie. Very sweet, smart, good with kids and do not shed.

 

[maggs]

You're won't believe this, but I do have a Yorkie and I absolutely love her. I also would never think to mix a Maltaise with a Bichon, but when I saw the ad in the newspaper, I thought it could be a good looking dog, however, I should have done my research to know that $400. for a mix breed was a lot of money. They did advertise in the newspaper that these puppies were Maltaise/Bichon mix, non-shedding dogs, so hopefully this will help me in Small Claims Court. I had originally bought my Yorkie to give my 4 lb. teacup poodle a playmate, however the day I purchased my Yorkie, my poodle was killed, and ever since I have been wanting another small, white dog to try to replace that one.

Thanks for your help!!

 

[ninalou]

Pomeranians also make wonderful companions. I had always been a "big dog" fan. Then one day, found a Pom (long story). They aren't yippy if you train them right. I then adopted a second one at an SPCA. (Needed some manners - but he is now my protector!) They are so much fun. I highly recommend the breed.

 

[vrzirn]

Both Bichon and Maltese are high upkeep dogs. Bichon needs constant brushing to prevent mats in the coat. Lives in the beauty parlor. Also, they are allergic to everything under the sun and get "hot spots" on their skin. Maltese also need brushing every minute. They look glamourous but do not have much personality.