FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

🏡 About Our Kennel & Breeding Philosophy

Q: What is your breeding philosophy?
A: Our philosophy centers on producing sound, intelligent, and loving Standard Poodles through ethical, intentional breeding. Every pairing is planned for health, temperament, and structure—not for color trends or market demand. We follow the Poodle Club of America’s Code of Ethics and place lifelong well-being above profit.

Q: How long have you been breeding Standard Poodles?
A: We have been involved with Standard Poodles for several years, and our foundation dogs come from proven health-tested lines known for excellent temperament and longevity.

Q: How many dogs do you own or breed?
A: We maintain a small breeding program with only a few adult dogs living in our home or with trusted guardian families. We never kennel dogs full-time—our poodles are family first.

Q: What are your goals for your breeding program?
A: To preserve and improve the Standard Poodle breed by focusing on:

  • Exceptional health and longevity

  • Stable, confident temperaments

  • Correct structure and movement

  • Versatile ability—family pets, therapy, performance, or show

🧬 Health Testing & Veterinary Care

Q: Can I see proof of health testing?
A: Yes! All testing results are publicly listed through OFA or available in each dog’s health packet. Transparency is a cornerstone of our program.

Q: What genetic diseases do you test for?
A: We perform DNA testing for Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA-prcd), Degenerative Myelopathy (DM), Neonatal Encephalopathy with Seizures (NEwS), von Willebrand’s Disease (vWD), and more, depending on current research and available panels.

Q: What is the life expectancy of your poodles?
A: Standard Poodles typically live 12–15 years. Our lines are selected from families known for excellent longevity and minimal hereditary disease.

Q: How do you ensure healthy puppies?
A: Beyond genetics, we prioritize prenatal and early-life health. Our mothers receive high-quality nutrition, prenatal supplements, and vet monitoring. Puppies are raised with daily handling, clean environments, and monitored weight gain to ensure robust development.

Q: Do you microchip the puppies?
A: Yes, all puppies are microchipped before leaving and registered to both us (as backup contact) and the new owner.

🧠 Temperament & Socialization

Q: How do you socialize your puppies?
A: From birth, puppies are raised under the Puppy Culture and ENS (Early Neurological Stimulation) protocols. They’re exposed to new textures, sounds, surfaces, mild stress challenges, grooming, and crate introduction. Each experience builds confidence and adaptability.

Q: Are Standard Poodles good with children?
A: Absolutely, when raised and socialized properly. Our puppies grow up in a home environment with regular human interaction, including gentle exposure to children when appropriate.

Q: Are they good for first-time dog owners?
A: Yes—Standard Poodles are intuitive, highly trainable, and eager to please. We provide ongoing guidance for grooming, training, and care, making them a wonderful choice even for new owners willing to learn.

Q: How do you match puppies to families?
A: We conduct temperament evaluations around 7 weeks old and combine those results with your lifestyle and goals to make the best match. We do not place puppies solely based on color or gender.

💵 Pricing, Deposits & Contracts

Q: How much do your puppies cost?
A: Our prices reflect the cost of health testing, quality care, and ethical breeding practices. Standard Poodle puppies are typically priced starting at $5000. We do not discount pet puppies over those who intend to show.

Q: Why do responsibly bred poodles cost more than others online?
A: Ethical breeding involves significant investment in health testing, veterinary care, nutrition, enrichment, and time. We don’t cut corners—each litter represents years of preparation to produce exceptional companions.

Q: Do you require a deposit?
A: Yes. A non-refundable deposit secures your reservation once your application is approved and a puppy is available. Deposits are applied toward the final purchase price. We do not accept wait-list deposits.

Q: What forms of payment do you accept?
A: We accept cash, certified check, or bank transfer / Zelle. We do not accept third-party financing or credit cards for puppy purchases at this time. 

Q: Do you offer payment plans?
A: In some cases, yes. We may allow structured payments during the waiting period before pickup. However, the puppy must be paid for in full before going home.

Q: What does your contract include?
A: Our contract outlines health guarantees, return policy, spay/neuter requirements, and lifetime breeder support. We encourage all buyers to review and ask questions before signing.

📦 Reserving & Bringing Home a Puppy

Q: How do I apply for a puppy?
A: Interested families fill out an application on our website or via email. We review each to ensure our puppies go to responsible, well-prepared homes.

Q: How long is your waiting list?
A: Wait times vary based on demand and planned litters, but generally range from 3–9 months. We keep applicants updated on breeding schedules and availability.

Q: What age do puppies go home?
A: Puppies are ready between 8 and 10 weeks, after completing critical social milestones, health checks, and vet clearances.

Q: What comes in your puppy pack?
A: Each puppy goes home with:

  • Vet health certificate and vaccination record

  • AKC registration papers

  • Health guarantee and signed contract

  • Microchip registration info

  • Sample of current food

  • Blanket or toy with litter scent

  • Grooming and training guide

  • Lifetime breeder support contact sheet

Q: Can I choose a specific color or gender?
A: You can state a preference, but we prioritize temperament and fit. Color and gender are secondary to compatibility and personality.

Q: What colors do you breed?
A: We breed according to the AKC standard colors, such as black, white, cream, apricot, silver, blue, and brown. We do not breed for or sell “exotic” or nonstandard colors.

✈️ Travel, Pickup & Delivery

Q: Do you ship puppies?
A: We do not cargo ship puppies. However, we can arrange safe, in-cabin flight nanny delivery or meet at major airports for hand delivery.

Q: Can we visit before pickup?
A: Yes, once puppies are 6 weeks old, approved buyers may visit by appointment. We sanitize thoroughly and limit exposure to protect the litter from illness.

Q: What if I live out of state?
A: Many of our families are out of state! We assist with travel arrangements or help you coordinate pickup at our local airport.

🍗 Feeding & Nutrition

Q: What food do you feed your puppies?
A: We use high-quality, balanced puppy food with limited fillers. You’ll receive details about brand, portion sizes, and transition tips.

Q: Do you feed raw or kibble?
A: Our puppies are weaned onto premium kibble for consistency and ease. Some families choose to feed raw or home-cooked later—we’re happy to discuss options with your veterinarian.

Q: How often should I feed my puppy?
A: Three small meals per day until 6 months old, then two meals daily thereafter. Consistency and portion control are key for growth and avoiding bloat.

✂️ Grooming & Coat Care

Q: How early should grooming start?
A: We begin grooming exposure at 3–4 weeks—brushing, nail trims, and gentle dryer exposure. We recommend scheduling your first professional grooming within two weeks of arrival home.

Q: What grooming tools should I have ready?
A: At minimum: a slicker brush, metal comb, nail clippers or grinder, high-quality shampoo, and ear cleaner. We can provide a starter list and tutorials.

Q: How often do Standard Poodles need grooming?
A: Every 4–6 weeks professionally, with brushing several times weekly at home.

🐾 Training, Exercise & Behavior

Q: Are your puppies crate-trained?
A: Puppies are introduced to crates and begin short periods of rest and playpen training before going home.

Q: Are Standard Poodles easy to train?
A: Yes—one of the most intelligent breeds! They learn quickly and thrive on positive reinforcement. Early consistency and patience yield outstanding results.

Q: How much exercise do they need?
A: Daily walks, playtime, and mental enrichment (like puzzles or scent work) are essential. Poodles love activity but are adaptable to moderate lifestyles with engagement.

Q: Are poodles barkers?
A: They can be vocal when bored or alerting, but proper training and engagement minimize nuisance barking.

💖 Support, Rehoming & Lifelong Care

Q: What support do you offer after purchase?
A: Lifetime support. You can contact us any time with questions about health, behavior, or care. We’re committed to each puppy for life.

Q: What if I can’t keep my poodle?
A: We require that any dog bred by us be returned, regardless of age or circumstances. We will always take back or help rehome one of our dogs.

Q: Do you offer boarding or training for your puppies later?
A: We occasionally offer return stays for grooming or short-term boarding for our puppy families. Ask us about current availability.

Q: Will you help with future breeding or showing?
A: For approved homes with breeding or show prospects, yes—we provide mentorship, guidance on genetic pairings, and handling support.

📞 Contact & Staying Connected

Q: Can I follow updates on new litters?
A: Yes! We share updates via our website, email newsletter, and private social group for approved families.

Q: Do you encourage updates from buyers?
A: Absolutely! We love hearing from our extended poodle family—photos, stories, and milestones are always welcome.