Frequently Asked Questions
We are very thoughtful and intentional in our methods based on our goal to produce happy and healthy dogs, and want you to be informed. Some common questions are answered below. If you have other questions, please contact us and we would be happy to talk with you.
Do you provide a guarantee?
Yes. Each dam and sire has passed genetic and physical testing, and each dog's pedigree has been evaluated for cross-breeding standards, all contributing toward assurance that our litters responsibly support the furthering of the breed. Our guarantee is stated in our puppy agreement which is provided with our puppy application. Based on parental genetic screening, pups would not inherit CNM, CY, DM, EIC, HNPK, HUU, PKD, prcd, or SD2.
How are the new puppies raised?
We take a very hands-on approach to puppy rearing. This includes Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) and Early Scent Introduction (ESI). They will also be exposure to household noise, like vacuum and human conversation. Puppies will be handled by family members and friends, adults and kids. We will provide regular updates so you can track the litter's progress.
When do I choose my puppy?
There may be names or faces of one or two pups that you absolutely love. Pick order will be based on the order deposits are received, after the breeder and trainer's picks. We will do our best to honor your first choice, but would endeavor to encourage matches based upon application responses and results of Puppy Aptitude and Temperament Testing, which will be performed individually with each pup when the litter is 49 days old, to help identify the best fit. When we received Lotty, we had the last pick. Our choice was to wait for the next litter or accept her. We have embraced her, and she has been a phenomenal dog (incidentally, the breeder said she would have been his pick!). Whether you have first or last pick, we trust you'll be equally satisfied with a pup from this litter.
What immunizations will my puppy receive?Each puppy will be given homeopathic nosodes to promote immunity against Parvo and Distemper. We use HolisticPetCare.com products and will be following their dosing schedule which is recommended to be continued until the pup is 7 months old. You may choose to obtain your own homeopathics to complete the schedule or visit a veterinarian for conventional pharmaceutical vaccinations. State of Washington WAC 246-100-197(3) calls for dog owners to have the animal vaccinated according to USDA-licensed vaccine manufacturer instructions. Some vaccines require the animal to be at least 12 weeks of age, at which time they would be in their new home. Accordingly, rabies vaccination is the responsibility of the owner.
Will you microchip my pup?
Our pups will not be microchipped. Having received a pup where the chip embedded in our animal did not match the number on the paperwork we received from the breeder, we want to avoid such a mix-up. This also enables you the opportunity to choose which microchip provider you use with your animal, should you choose to microchip them.
What do you do about dewclaws?
We leave them intact. Removal of dewclaws, the first digit on the inside of each front leg at the carpal (wrist), is a somewhat common practice among United States breeders (it is rarer among European breeders). Five tendons attach to the dewclaw, which is used by the dog for stability when running, turning, or climbing. Breeders electing to remove the dewclaws do so when the pups are just a few days old. If done later, sedation is required as the procedure is akin to an amputation. We acknowledge that leaving the dewclaw intact could put the dog at risk of injury, such as if the dewclaw gets caught on the side of the duck boat if the dog slips when jumping out. However, keeping the nail short reduces the risk of injury and it could be wrapped to the leg when in the boat to avoid getting snagged. If the dewclaw is removed, studies have found the risk of other injuries increases. Without the dewclaw, the carpal ligaments can stretch and tear, contributing to arthritis later in life. This stress is carried up the leg to other joints, including the elbow, shoulder, and spine. With the dewclaw intact, it was found to be the least injured - most injuries involved the outer toe.
Sources:
Cullen KL, Dickey JP, Bent LR, Thomason JJ, MoÃns NM. Survey-based analysis of risk factors for injury among dogs participating in agility training and competition events. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2013;243:1019-24.
Zink, M. Christine (DVM, PhD, DACVSMR). Form Follows Function – A New Perspective on an Old Adage. Penn Vet Working Dog Center. p. 11. (3/4/2016).
What are your puppy fees?
A puppy is a big investment and a big commitment. We require a non-refundable deposit of $250 to reserve your position on our waiting list. Your deposit is transferrable to a future litter. The remainder of the puppy fee is due in full at, or prior to, your puppy leaving our care. You must arrange to receive your puppy from us between 49 to 56 days of birth. In the rare instance you are unable to take receipt of your puppy during that time, we charge a $40/day fee for crate training, plus the cost of a crate. In the extremely unlikely event that we do not hear from you, we reserve the right to sell your puppy to the next prospective owner and transfer your deposit to the next litter.