Frequently Asked Questions....
Why do your puppies cost more than some others?
Multigenerational Australian Labradoodles cost more than earlier generation dogs because of the considerable time and effort invested by the breeder to develop consistent looking puppies with reliable traits. I have also noticed a surge of new breeders (up to 50% may have less than two years experience) and I want to distinguish myself from this group. Many of the early cross puppies share a wide variety of characteristics including coats that may not be allergy friendly or non-shedding, and therefore are priced cheaper. A responsible and experienced breeder has health as a top priority and incurs high costs in testing their breeding adults to try to decrease the incidence of genetic health issues, such as hip dysplasia, in future offspring. A cheaper priced dog may come from a line of dogs who have not been tested for genetic disease. And the breeder's high cost of purchasing reputable breeding stock, stud fees, and veterinary bills can be extensive. You will receive a healthy puppy from us as we invest in great care of our pregnant females, as well as, in great care of our puppies through preventative measures for disease and parasite control. We also cover the expense of having your puppy examined by a veterinarian, vaccinated, microchipped, and we typically begin crate training. I view our program similar to a boutique where the items may be priced higher than the larger chain stores, but you will find great quality, unique looks, and tender individualized care.
Can we visit the litter before our puppy is old enough to come home?
Absolutely! We would love to meet you in person and have you experience the beautiful piece of paradise we call home. We only ask that you plan your visit for a weekend when the puppies turn five to six weeks old. At this age, the puppies' unique personality and looks will be more apparent then when they are younger. We also want the puppies' immune systems to be mature before exposing them to outside influences. Please also be aware after listening closely to your desires, I will be making the final decision regarding which puppy will be the most successful in your home. If you would like to visit I can give you advice on where to stay and the easiest travel routes to help you plan your trip to our home in the Methow Valley. We live approximately five hours by car from Seattle and three hours from Spokane. You can find more information at WinthropWashington.com. We look forward to seeing you!
What brand of dog food should I feed my puppy?
We suggest you continue feeding the same brand of dog food your puppy is used to eating in our home. If you would like to switch brands, feel free to do so at least two weeks after your puppy has had time to adjust to all the new changes in living with your family. Be sure to introduce the new food slowly so as not to upset his tummy. Begin by mixing 1/4 of the new food with 3/4 old food, then after a few days gradually increase to 1/2 new, then 3/4 new, then all new. Here is a link to the Whole Dog Food Journal's 2013 Recommended Brands
How big will my puppy be?
Here are photos of our son standing with three of our adult Australian Labradoodles so you can get an idea of what their size looks like. Our son is almost six feet tall. Flicka is a large miniature at 16.5" and the top of her back comes to just below his knee. Cedar is a medium at 18" and her back is at his knee, and Boomer is a large medium at 20" with his back just above our son's knee. Your dog will also appear slightly larger with a longer coat!
Can I register with the ALAA as a pet member?
Your support of the Australian Labradoodle Association of America as a Pet Member is greatly appreciated. A one time fee of $30 will give you access to the dog registry, and to a vast network of fellow owners and breeders who support the ALAA's efforts to protect the future of the Labradoodle and Australian Labradoodle breeds.
Do Australian Labradoodles make good service dogs?
Yes! The Australian Labradoodle was developed initially for a vision impaired woman and her husband who was allergic to dogs. They make wonderful service companions and therapy dogs. Here are some links for more information: Healingpaws.com Petpartners.org Therapydogorganizations.net
Where can I learn more about introducing young children to dogs?
Great information to help introduce puppy to children and other pets. Understand subtle communication cues and avoid aggressive behavior at Doggone Safe.