Question 1

Are the parents DNA tested?

Accepted Answer

Yes

Before breeding, we conduct DNA testing on both the mother and father to screen for testable inheritable diseases. We welcome successful applicants to view the DNA test results. Additionally, all of our breeding dogs undergo a health check to screen for any complications that cannot be detected through DNA testing alone. Moreover, we prioritize a dog's temperament and do not breed from dogs with a history of behavioural issues, as these traits can be inherited. As responsible breeders, we value the health and well-being of our dogs and are committed to expanding our testing procedures to include patella luxation, eye, and heart certificates.

Evidence-based research has highlighted the importance of these screening processes, in addition to DNA. When choosing a breeder, it is critical to select one who conducts these essential health screenings, as this helps to ensure the production of healthy and well-tempered puppies.

Question 2

What is the price?

Accepted Answer

Our prices range from $4,500 to $5,500 and are adjusted per litter to remain competitive with other responsible breeders in South Australia.
We prioritize providing the highest level of care to our mothers and puppies, which may not be the case for puppy farms or backyard breeders with lower pricing. Our dedication is worth the investment, and our pricing reflects the care and devotion we put into our puppies' upbringing. We also offer lifelong support to both our puppies and their new families.
Check our RightPaw profile for current pricing updates

Question 3

How big will they be?

Accepted Answer

Most of my puppies typically grow to weigh between 4kg and 6kg, although some may be larger or smaller. While I do my best to provide guidance based on the parents' weights, it’s important to remember that no one can guarantee an exact adult size. Just like with humans, surprises can happen—two average-sized parents might have a very tall child! Ultimately, the most important thing is that each puppy is cherished by their family, regardless of how big or small they become.

Question 4

When is your next litter due?

Accepted Answer

The below is just a guide, as we are relying on mother nature. We encourage you to apply to join our waitlist or follow us on social media for regular updates.

Myrtle: Summer, 2024
Jinkie: Autumn, 2025
Scarlet: Winter, 2025
Maple:  2025- Season yet to be determined

We have a limited number of litters per year with breaks for our breeding girls to prevent stress and depletion, and to ensure there are enough homes for puppies. 
Unlike us humans, dogs typically only have two chances to become pregnant per year! Unfortunately, not every mating is successful. When a pregnancy doesn't 'take', we have to wait a whole 6 months until the next fertile time.

Question 5

How do I apply?

Accepted Answer

Applications are received through:
Our website here
Via RightPaw here

Question 6

How can I make my application stand out?

Accepted Answer

Our dogs and puppies are precious to us and we get hundreds of applications per litter.  Here are some tips to stand out from the crowd:

Answer all questions in detail. 
The more information the better! Don't be afraid to go overboard here- We read every application in detail and will pay the most attention to applicants that have put considerable effort in.

Show off what you know
Take this opportunity to talk about what methods you have used to raise previous pets, and what methods you intend to use in the future. If this is your first pet, talk about what research you have done on selecting a breeder or raising a puppy. If you intend to seek guidance from a professional trainer, or if you are committed to having your puppy professionally groomed, please make sure to say so as we prioritise homes that are willing to invest in their puppies care.

Communicate knowledge gaps and be willing to take guidance
Perfection isn't required. We expect that new puppy pawrents will come to us with questions throughout their puppies development- We want the best for our puppies and encourage learning! 
Puppy raising is an ever-evolving science. So much has been discovered in the last 20 years, and we encourage owners to always be open to learning and improving their puppies lives.
If we are looking at two applicants, and one says no to puppy preschool because they "have had lots of dogs before and I know how to raise them right", and the second applicant is inexperienced but wants to learn, we will prioritize the inexperienced owner who is willing to learn every time.

Engage with us on social media
Most peoples engagement begins and ends with their RightPaw application. If you regularly appear in the comments section of our social media posts you WILL stand out!

Respect our time
We truly appreciate your excitement about welcoming a new puppy into your family! To help us serve everyone better, we kindly ask that applicants respect our time during this process. While we love your questions and are here to help, we ask that you refrain from repeating the same inquiries, as this allows us to focus more on caring for our puppies.

We understand that waiting for updates can be stressful, so if you haven’t heard back about your application and are feeling anxious, please feel free to reach out. 
We strive to stay organized, but sometimes things may slip through the cracks amidst the joyful chaos of raising puppies.

Your understanding and patience mean a lot to us—thank you for your kindness!

Question 7

Are puppies toilet trained?

Accepted Answer

We begin to introduce toilet training as soon as puppies are able to wobble-walk. 
Typically puppies are used to doing their business on grass by the time they go to their new homes. However, it is important to be patient and to continue with their training as they are just babies.

Question 8

How are puppies socialized?

Accepted Answer

We follow the Extra Socialisation Program in addition to the Standardised Socialisation Program​,​ which is used in assistance dogs and is approved by the Guide Dogs ethics committee. Additionally​,​ we adhere to Puppy Culture recommendations​,​ which have been developed by industry leaders​,​ veterinarians and behaviourists.

We engage in slow exposure training to sounds, textures, smells, spaces and sights. When our puppies are old enough, they are introduced to safe dogs, visitors & children for puppy play dates to raise happy and resilient puppies.

Early puppy training and exercises such as these set puppies up for a lifetime of physical and emotional wellbeing.

Question 9

Do you do early neurological stimulation (ENS) or Early Scent Introduction (ESI)?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) is a process introduces mild  and harmless stimulation to very young puppies in a controlled way. Early scent introduction (ESI)  is the practice of exposing young puppies to a variety of smells to stimulate their olfactory system for cognitive and emotional development. These early life experiences stimulate the neurological system, improving the growth and development of the puppy.

Reported benefits of ENS and ESI  include:
1. Greater resistance stress (eg fireworks, grooming, car rides)
2. Improved heart health
3. Strong immune system
4. Improved bonding
5. Greater cognitive function

Question 10

What is your stance on Guardianships?

Accepted Answer

Guardianship programs can be a responsible alternative to puppy farms when they prioritize the health and wellbeing of breeding dogs. We only place a puppy into a guardian home if there are enough homes to expand our breeding program, the puppy has desirable characteristics, and the home is comfortable with ongoing involvement with us. 
It's important to note that not all guardianship programs are ethical, but we prioritize the mother dog's health and happiness and allow for contract cancellations without charge if the dog is stressed, unhappy, or fails health or temperament assessments.

Question 11

Reputable breeders are beyond my budget

Accepted Answer

We believe that responsible pet ownership should be accessible to everyone, which is why we offer various options to improve affordability. For instance, we provide discounts for low-income households, as well as rebates for trained therapy dogs. From time to time, we lend a helping hand to rescues and other breeders by helping them find loving homes for their older puppies at a reduced cost.
Our guardianship program provides a gradual rebate of 90% of the purchase price and allows the owner to choose a puppy from the final litter upon completion of the contract, at no additional cost. It's important to note that guardianships are offered on a highly selective basis.

If you are interested in any of these options, please indicate this in your RightPaw application.

Frequently asked questions