Frequently Asked Questions
A Must Read! |
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| 1. |
What is a professional breeder? |
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Will you keep my pup a little longer? |
| 2. |
Why should I buy from a breeder? |
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I don't know if I want to start with a young puppy, would an older pup be easier? |
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Do breeders charge more? |
14. |
Does the sex of the puppy make a difference? |
| 4. |
Do you do genetic testing and is there any guarantee for the pup? |
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I want a really tiny poodle, do you breed them? |
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What do I get with my puppy and what will I need? |
16. |
I want a poodle with a "baby doll or a teddy bear face" do you have them? |
| 6. |
What guarantees come with my puppy? |
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How much upkeep is required for a poodle? |
| 7. |
What if things don't work out? |
18. |
I have never raised a puppy is it hard? |
| 8. |
How do I buy a pup, is a deposit needed? |
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How big will my new puppy grow and how much will it weigh? |
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Can I place an order for a pup from a future litter? |
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What about allergies or asthma? |
| 10. |
At what age can I take my new puppy home? |
21. |
I only want a female puppy, I think they are nicer? |
| 11. |
Is shipping available? |
22. |
What about house training my new puppy? |
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| 1. |
What is a professional breeder? |
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A professional breeder is just that, a PROFESSIONAL. A professional breeder has several generations of experience with their poodle lines, and is serious about improving the Poodle breed. A professional breeder will have a solid and sizeable breeding stock with which to make decisions on breeding particular dogs to further improve the quality of their pups. A professional breeder studies pedigrees and knows bloodlines, colors and sizes behind all their dogs. A professional breeder invites you to their home to see the pups NOT TO A PARKING LOT! A professional breeder will be able to show you at least one of the parents of the puppy, photos of the other, and pedigrees for both parents. A professional breeder will be able to answer all of your questions pertaining to the breed and to you puppy. A breeder gives you information, paperwork, medical records and accessories to make the pup feel save in its new environment. A breeder does this because we love the pup and have a vested interest in your happiness with your new pup. Most professional breeders do not sell to pet stores. They care about where their pups end up and want to meet and interview the buyer as much as the buyer wants to meet them. A professional breeder is always there for you as long as you own the pup or need the assistance. I often get calls from buyers of “pet shop pups”, because they have no where to turn once the pup has been purchased. As a professional, I help when I can. Last, a professional breeder usually belongs to poodle groups to exchange breeding ideas, and expand on poodle knowledge with others breeding the same sizes or colors. TOP |
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| 2. |
Why should I buy from a breeder? |
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If you want a high quality pet and the best buy for your money, you need to deal with a breeder. There are different levels of “breeders,” and you need to know the difference so that you can make the best decision for you and your family.
Next, there are professional breeders. I am one of these. Our goal is to produce the best quality PET possible, using the standards of the breed to insure a beautifully balanced Toy Poodle. We also do genetic testing on the parents where a lot of breeders do not. Because we scrutinize what we do and adhere to defined breeding practices we are producing a superior pet.
Next, is what I refer to as the “occasional breeder.” These folks usually have a couple of family pets that they occasionally breed. They can be a great place to get a pup IF they have started with top quality stock. I have set-up many families that enjoy this breeding practice. I have chosen the best two dogs for them to raise, with the intended goal of breeding. Thus, they are set up to win! More often than not, however, their stock is not of the quality necessary to consistently produce high quality pets.
Last, are the strictly “pups for bucks” breeders”. We are all seeing the stories on the news of the puppy mills and puppy smuggling rings. TOP |
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| 3. |
Do breeders charge more? |
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Most breeders charge LESS than pet shops for a much higher quality dog. Pet shop dogs often need medical care after purchase due to excessive handling without proper restrictions and supervision. Generally, there is little or no background information provided by pet shops for these pups and most chain pet shops can't or won't give you direct contact with their supplier. Remember, pet stores are a business that does not specialize. They order pups like anything and everything else in the store! Most breeders, like me, are specializing and breeding the best quality pups possible. We are continually improving our stock and buy only the best quality dogs to add to our breeding stock. Poodles live into the teens. This makes your new puppy a big investment for your future. The old phrase “you get what you pay for” definitely applies. TOP |
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| 4. |
Do you do genetic testing and is there any guarantee for the pup? |
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YES! every canine should be genetically tested for eyes. All my breeding stock has been examined by a Veterinary Ophthalmologist and has passed CERF testing for PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy). I take every pup for a full physical before you take it home.
You receive a signed health certificate from the vet. My genetic health guarantee covers the first year of the puppies life. My contract goes into detail on the health guarantee. My pups are bred to have long healthy lives, I do everything to insure this for the buyer.
However, as with any living creature there are things I cannot predict. My contract is set up to protect the buyer from a freaky genetic disorder that will be life threatening to the pup. TOP |
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| 5. |
What do I get with my puppy and what will I need? |
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A Vet health certificate and shots record, with date of first shot and dates subsequent shots are needed. Puppy will be wormed, clipped and groomed. You will get an information packet, food, and where applicable, AKC papers....read more HERE. Learn about home preparations HERE. TOP |
| 6. |
What guarantees come with my puppy? |
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Too many buyers have heart breaking stories about the “last” dog and its’ life long health issues. My adults are routinely CERF tested. This covers canine eye problems such as premature cataracts and PRA or progressive retinal atrophy, which are genetic problems that result in early blindness. At your discression I allow 3 business days for you to take your pup to the Vet of your choice for a health check. If a licensed veterinarian detects any problems, excluding any damage to pup after removal from my care, they must be described in a clinical report and provided to the seller within that 3 days time. The buyer is then entitled to an exchange or refund providing the request from the buyer is accompanied by a letter from the examining veterinarian as evidence of the puppy's condition. This is clearly outlined in the purchase contract. TOP |
| 7. |
What if things don't work out? |
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Sometimes a situation will arise that isn't the best for a dog or its owner. Illness, for example, or a move to a new location might require that the pet be placed in another home. Occasionally a pup may be purchased too soon for a young family, and owners have concerns for the pup's safety with their toddlers. This decision, although hard, is best for the pup, because small children can and do hurt wee pups and the parents can be none the wiser to the incident. ANY of my puppies can come back and I promise to find a loving home where it will be well cared for. All the records pertaining to the dog must be returned. In these cases, I do not refund the price of the dog. TOP |
| 8. |
How do I buy a pup, is a deposit needed? |
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A deposit is the best way to reserve a toy poodle puppy of your choice. I often receive several inquiries about the same puppy. Everyone is sent information and photos on the puppy and its parents. Depending on the maturity, puppies are sold at eight weeks of age. I hold puppies with a deposit of half the full price. Pick-up at 8 weeks requires CASH ONLY. If you decide not to complete the purchase, you forfeit your deposit. If the puppy is not paid in full as outlined above, OR is not picked up within 10 days of the agreed pickup time, the buyer forfeits the right to the puppy and it will be resold. TOP |
| 9. |
Can I place an order for a pup from a future litter? |
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I have so many such requests that it is impossible to follow-up with all prospective buyers. If you enquire, I will respond immediately with information about current and upcoming litters and, of course, I am always available by phone I believe that my time is better spent with the dogs and their care. Buyers should check back with me if you don't find a puppy that suits you. TOP |
| 10. |
At what age can I take my new puppy home? |
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Most pups are ready to go at 8 weeks. They have had a Vet well puppy check and the first shot. Some pups (the real little ones) will require a week or two longer. TOP |
| 11. |
Is shipping available? |
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This is certainly possible. We live near the Ontario International Airport in Southern California. The recent problems in the airlines industry it is harder to get short or non stop flights for pups. If you are in a difficult area to access I have private carriers to use. Send me the name of your closest airport and I will quote a shipping cost for you. There will be a small handling and preparation fee that includes the cage, Vet check for required health documents, check-in at the airport, etc. Airlines allow shipping after 8 weeks of age. I have shipped dogs all over the US, including several to Alaska as well as into Canada. I have never had a problem and the pups have always arrived safely. Don't feel that because it is a pup it would be of even more concern than an older dog. Quite the opposite is the case. A pup sleeps most of the day, and although it will be confused, it will accept the change in routine. They are already made comfortable in cages set within their usual play area so going into their cage and taking a nap is quite normal for them. ANY pup leaving home and traveling, whether by air or car, will be under stress. This is not to be taken lightly and I will discuss how to make this transition with minimal difficulty, as possible. TOP |
| 12. |
Will you keep my pup a little longer? |
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When you buy a pup a pick up date is on the contract. Pup must be picked up no later than the first weekend after that date. Beyond that date, your pup is considered “boarding” @ $18.00 per day. TOP |
| 13. |
I don't know if I want to start with a young puppy, would an older pup be easier? |
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There are many positive reasons for selecting an older pup or even a young adult. Obviously, they're through much of the "puppy stage" that requires constant attention. Moreover, with the older dog the development is more complete, so what you see is what you get. Older dogs are less demanding, and since they've already been handled, their personalities are better established. Size, bone development and maturity make them very suitable, particularly for a younger child or an older person. EXPECT your puppy to act like a puppy for up to 2 years. This will include high energy, silly behavior and the feeling that “after a nice sit in your lap” you should be up for doing something the pup wants to do!! ALL this is normal, toys may have finished growing by 6-7 months, but maturity has awhile catching up to them. Don't despair, continue the “rules and regulations” of the house and your pup will still be a pleasure to you. TOP |
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| 14. |
Does the sex of the puppy make a difference? |
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Do you know that male puppies make better pets than females? Males are more fun-loving, bond quickly to their new owners and have the attitude "What can I do to make you happy"? Males also get along easier with existing house pets than females. Neuter at 4 months and they usually won't lift their legs (the most common reason I hear when people request a female puppy)!! READ MORE HERE TOP |
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| 15. |
I want a really tiny poodle, do you breed them? |
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These are known as tiny toys or sometimes referred to as T-cups and generally weigh about 3 - 4 pounds. I occasionally do get dogs this little appearing as "runts" of toy litters. I do not purposely breed them. These are not the size for a family pet; they are very fragile and therefore not suitable for children or homes where grandchildren often visit. TOP |
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| 16. |
I want a poodle with a "baby doll or a teddy bear face" do you have them? |
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Like all professional breeders, I breed to the poodle standard. People with only a few dogs cannot improve the breed and are just breeding the “family pets”. Their product often has structural faults - short legs, long backs, bug eyes, and an overall disproportionate dog. Often times these pups do not have a traditional poodle face. The face is too short and the eyes are too wide apart. The proper structural balance of the traditional and correct poodle face is non-existent. Over time, cutesy names like baby doll face and teddy bear face have been applied to give the impression that this is a desired look! It is NOT, but there are enough of these pups floating around the pet shops for the buying public to assume that that is how a poodle should look. The flaw is often camouflaged by letting the face hair grow out. If you like that look, it can also be applied to a “correctly proportioned” poodle as shown in the MAKING FACES photographs at the bottom of the PAST PUPPIES page. TOP |
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| 17. |
How much upkeep is required for a poodle? |
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All dog breeds benefit from brushing. And poodles are no exception. Not only is bushing good for the coat, it is quality time spent with your poodle and helps keep you aware of any skin problems that might be hiding under the coat. A groomer can cut the dog very short and this will last 2 - 4 months. Most people like to bath their dog every week or so and this is easily managed in the sink. TOP |
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| 18. |
I have never raised a puppy is it hard? |
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No, puppies are not hard to raise. I send a booklet with your puppy on everything I can think of that might come up regarding the puppy's initiation into your home. Also, there is lots of "one on one" follow-up via E-mail or phone. Sometimes a question or a problem will arise a year or more later, and you can always contact me. If I don't know the answer, I will call other breeders to get one for you. TOP |
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| 19. |
How big will my new puppy grow and how much will it weigh? |
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That depends on what size of dog you purchase. Toys come in a variety of sizes. AKC designates all poodles up to 10 " as toy poodles. Given that, tiny toys usually weigh 4 - 5 pounds, larger ones 6 - 8 pounds and the tallest toys anywhere from 7 - 10 pounds. These weights are influenced by the "bone structure" of the dog. Some dogs are "heavier boned" than others and surprise you when you pick them up! Based on early and regular weighing final size can be estimated quite accurately. I usually find questions about size amusing, because size is often the first concern of a potential buyer. Breeders don't have crystal balls. We make “good guesses” based on the size of the parents and our experience. BUT all of us have been fooled and sizes can go one way or the other. That is not to say that a toy will suddenly become a huge miniature, but rather that there can be a sizable variation. To me, the most important questions should concern health, proportion, substance and disposition. These are the factors that will ensure a sound relationship between you and your new puppy and a long and healthy life for your pet. I routinely sell to people who have had nightmarish experiences with the “too” tiny poodle for which they have paid a huge price – but the purchase price is often outdone by the vet costs and many times by the early death of the pet. Truthfully, as your own research will show you, poodles were not meant to be the size of a Chihuahua. If you have to find and own one that size you need to be prepared to treat it through its entire life as a fragile ornament - because that is what it is. TOP |
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| 20. |
What about allergies or asthma? |
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This is one of the few dog breeds that don't seem to bother people who are otherwise allergic to pets. Poodles don't shed as other breeds do. TOP |
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| 21. |
I only want a female puppy, I think they are nicer? |
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This statement is usually backed up with the argument that males lift their legs, mark territory, hump and thus are undesirable. Actual facts are that females do ALL the same things! AND if you happen to have one that is an Alfa personality then she will likely not get along with anyone, unless that dog sees it her way. This can be hard on another pet. This personality trait, very common, is not noticeable when they are wee pups but show up later so you have no idea. Spaying does NOT make a difference! As to the males, neutering usually keeps them squatting all their life, the “marking” is not done since there are no hormonal urges to breed. Humping by females or males is nothing more than a bad habit. Discipline this bad habit the same way as you do to enforce all the rules of your home. READ MORE HERE TOP |
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| 22. |
What about house training my new puppy? |
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This is not hard, but requires consistency. Your pup will come trained to a litter box and sometimes a dog door. I feel that litter box training is the best thing yet for puppies and their new owners. First, it is cleaner. There is much less smell and mess than is typical with newspaper and buyers often tell me that puppies love to rip the puppy pads to shreds! The litter box is also perfect for the apartment pup. The problem most buyers have with pups is that they expect too much too soon. Pups shouldn't even begin potty training until they are over 4 months. To be successful you should have a containment area set aside just for the pup, and once over 4-5 months depending on finishing up the shots, you can start taking them out to the back yard and working on outside training. The information pamphlet covers in detail how to carry on with this so you will get through the puppy stage with as few accidents as possible. TOP |
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